Tuesday, March 22, 2016

Bad Mood? Might be Your Food

Today we're going to take a look at what happens when you eat foods that are not particularly healthy. So let's dive right in!

Refined Carbohydrates and Sugar: There’s really nothing good to say about these food products. They contribute to high levels of inflammation throughout the body, they are devoid of nutritional value, and they are even tied to increased symptoms of depression.
The Women’s Health Initiative looked a data gather from 40 health clinics from 24 states over a three year period and found that a higher risk for depression was directly tied to higher consumption of refined carbohydrates.

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www.pressexaminer.com
Artificial Sweeteners: There are numerous studies tying artificial sweeteners to weight gain, tumors, and cancer, however the scientific community remains divided on the safety of these food additives. In a study on the neurobehavioral effects of aspartame, researchers found that healthy individuals with no history of depression, exhibited symptoms of irritable mood, and depression as well as decreased spatial orientation, when they consumed aspartame for just one week.

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www.sciencenews.org

Trans fats: Trans fats have also been the topic of numerous research studies measuring the correlation between its consumption and its effect on mood. These artificially created fats are not processed in our bodies the same way that natural, healthy fats are. Therefore rather than being a benefit to our brain health, they act as a determent causing inflammation, affecting memory and creating a depressed state.


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healthylivingforladies.com

Processed foods: This group of “foods” includes all the negative attributes of the aforementioned groups. Studies have linked diets high in processed foods to erratic behavior, mood swings, depression, and violent outbursts. There are several reasons for this, these foods are processed quickly leading to energy peaks and crashes, and diets high in processed foods are tied to vitamin and mineral deficiencies. This lack of vitamins and minerals leads to an inability to produce the chemicals and hormones necessary for proper brain function. 

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www.new-you.me

Tomorrow we'll look at healthier food choices.

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