Good-Mood Food

When you're in a foul mood, says nutritionist Janine Whiteson, you should do yourself and those round you a favour by following these tips.
• EAT MORE-CARBOHYDRATES. Starchy foods ¬such as brown rice, pasta and bread, and fruits such as bananas help release serotonin, a mood-enhancing brain chemical.
• IF YOU'RE ON A HIGH-PROTEIN DIET, GET OFF IT NOW! The lack of carbohydrates will meddle with your energy levels and put you in a bad mood.
• To protect your nervous system and¬ lift your mood, EAT MORE ESSENTIAL FATTY ACIDS. Top your next salad with a handful of nuts or seeds and some extra-virgin olive oil.
• Too much caffeine can make you irritable, so CUT BACK ON CAFFEINATED DRINKS if you can't exclude them from your diet completely. Reduce your intake grad¬ually, though, to avoid withdrawal symptoms such as headaches and fatigue.

Author: Cathy Lund