Food & Your Mood

Every day, by mid to late afternoon, many people start to feel sluggish and fatigued, and maybe a little grumpy. A snack to help make it through the rest of the work day begins to sound very appealing. Taking a trip to the vending machine for some overly processed sugary or salty treats, or to the corner café for a jolt of coffee, are likely choices in the effort to beat the afternoon slump. However, do these common habits really make people feel better? Maybe for a bit, until they start to feel worse. New research uncovering a strong link between diet and its impact on mood and behavioral illness may be enough to change the habits of afternoon snackers. A recent study found that gut bacteria (also known as gut flora) has a strong link to brain chemistry and its effect on behavior and emotional wellbeing, according to researchers at McMaster University.… Read More