~ What is it with Women & Chocolate ?!? ~
Chocolate and women :)
Why is it that no matter where you go, women love chocolate??
Science has revealed that the foods you consume affect the chemicals of your brain. Those chemicals released from your brain affect everything!
They affect your emotions and your ability stay calm when reacting to change.
The chemicals in the food affect the brain, think of them as chemical messengers!
The brain responds by releasing Serotonin, Norepineprine and Dopamine.
This causes the food related mood changes.
Serotonin promotes feelings of relaxation & well being. It can also sharpen focus. Too much of this in your system can cause you to feel slow & sluggish.
You have heard of "food coma"?
Dopamine & Norepinephrine are stimulants that help you stay alert & stimulated. Too much of this in your nervous system can cause you to feel anxious & agitated. Too little and you start to feel tired & "blue".
The general rules are :
Carbohydrates lift your mood but can make you feel sluggish & tired.
Combats stress & anxiety & promotes relaxation.
Proteins help you stay focused & alert but they may not give you that calm and happy feeling.
People who don't get enough Selenium are more likely to become anxious, irritable & even depressed then people with sufficient amounts.
Vitamin B6, Vitamin C, Folic Acid and Zinc are essential "good mood" nutrients.
They are needed because they turn tryptohan into Serotonin.
Zinc deficiency is a common factor in anger, aggression and irritability.
Understanding the "food and mood" connection, you too can improve your emotional turmoil, improve your energy level, and improve the quality of your sleep.
Foods that are good sources of these nutrients:
Vitamin B berries, dairy products, whole grains
Folic Acid dark leafy greens
Iron eggs, dark leafy greens, red meat
Zinc beans, meat, milk, whole grains,peas
Magnesium nuts, whole grain, dark leafy greens
Snack on low fat protein and carbs, as these are true comfort foods that will also keep you feeling great and full of energy!
Chocolate too has a daily requirement: As much as you would like :)
Love & Light always,
Dr Daragh
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