Developing my series on positive thinking, today I’m proud to introduce my first guest blogger, Allison Brooks, who is a nutrition expert and has her own take on the topic.

Foods to Improve Your Mood

There is no doubt that food can enhance one’s mood. From the moment it touches the delicate taste buds on the tongue to the time it enters the bloodstream, food has a profound effect on the human body.

Food boosts energy levels by providing the necessary calories to function each day as well as by causing the metabolism to use those calories as fuel. Foods and beverages that contain caffeine may produce a stimulant effect; however, the best foods to create a positive mood are those which stabilize blood sugar levels and cause the brain to release pleasurable hormones, such as serotonin.


Carbohydrates are the body’s primary and preferred source of energy. They elicit the release of serotonin from the brain, which causes a lift in mood and emotions. Complex carbohydrates, such as beans and whole grains, are able to stabilize blood sugar levels for longer periods of time. Sweet foods will also cause a rise in blood sugar, but it will quickly plummet, which often leads to feelings of depression and fatigue.

Fruits and Vegetables
Fruits and vegetables are loaded with vitamins, minerals, and phytochemicals that increase overall health and well-being. Additionally, these key nutrients reduce inflammation and promote healthy blood circulation for optimal functioning. They are also being researched for their preventative and immune-boosting capabilities. The American Cancer Society has studied many different combinations of certain chemicals to hopefully find the perfect one to increase life-expectancy for many cancers.

Nuts, such as almonds, Brazil nuts, hazelnuts, and cashews, are rich in selenium, which serves as an antioxidant to fight off free radicals in the body. Free radicals cause oxidative stress, which leads to a host of conditions and diseases, including premature aging, cancer, and depression. Nuts are also rich in protein, which helps to stabilize blood sugar levels.

Lean Meat
Lean meats, such as beef, chicken, pork, and turkey contain an amino acid called tyrosine, which stimulates the release of norepinephrine and dopamine. These two hormones enhance mental clarity, focus, relaxation and alertness.

Studies have linked the consumption of coldwater fish that contains high levels of omega-3 fatty acids to reduced risk of depression. Omega-3 fatty acids may help combat emotion dips. Many studies have been done regarding the effects of a low-fat diet combined with fish oil on prostate cancer treatment.

Tea and Dark Chocolate


While producing a stimulating effect similar to coffee, tea is also rich in antioxidants as well as L-theanine, an amino acid that can increase alertness, memory, and reaction time. Chocolate that has a high percentage of cocao, at least 60 to 70 percent, is bursting with antioxidants. The caffeine combined with the bromine enhances booth mood and energy levels.

becoming concious of what you eat can help you influence your mood. You can contact Allison Brooks if you would like to know more about adjusting your diet :, and for other ways to enhance positive thinking, get in touch with me at knowboundaries