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Hi Dan:

Dan asks: "What kinds of different moods are specific foods capable of setting off?"

Dan the food-mood connection is well researched. Someone could conceivably engineer
their moods to a fair degree by their choices in foods and beverages. Scientists have identified many substances in common foods and beverages that alter our brain chemistry and the way we feel. These substances influence the production of neurotransmitters which in turn can change our emotions and moods.

Here's a list of common mood altering foods and beverages:

*Eat lean protein like chicken breast or white tuna in the morning without carbs or fat and your mood and alertness will brighten. Our neurotransmitters dopamine, norepinephrine, and serotonin are made from protein foods' amino acids tyrosine and tryptophan. Tyrosine is a key ingredient in building dopamine and norepinephrine, the alertness transmitters. Another protein tryptophan is the building block of serotonin, a neurotransmitter that calms us.

*Coffee is well known for creating up mood and alertness as well as a rebound slump later. Coffee's caffeine increases our brain's serotonin, a calming neurotransmitter. Caffeine latches onto specific brain receptors usually employed by another naturally occuring brain tranquilizer: adenosine. When caffeine takes adenosine's place, our brain becomes more reactive to sound and light. You think faster and are more alert.

*A moderate glass of red wine may lead to a relaxed mood and it's antioxidants are said to be heart protectant. Alcohol, while relaxing, is a depressant

*Dark chocolate, with it's PEA, is said to create a feel good and loving mood. Better still is raw chocolate without the fat and sugar. Chocolate also contains anandamide a cannabinoid that makes you feel mellow.
It works similarly to the cannabinoids found in marijuana.

*Any combination of simple carbs(Cookies, pasta, white bread, sweets) and protein are a well known sleepy relaxant.

Folks who suffer from depression may want to look at the possibility of eating lean protein at the start of the day and then later follow with a normal eating. Lean protein, whether its from meat, poultry, vegan sources, or fish, has the ability to boost mood.


Take care, Steve