How Diet Affects Your Mood - Hired Power

Our bodies are an interwoven, connected system. There is a connection between what you eat and how you feel. When you’re in early recovery, you may be tempted to indulge in sugary, processed foods. The reason for this is because one unhealthy food triggers the same areas of your brain that drugs and alcohol do.

As tempting as it may be to reach for donuts or french fries, try to limit your intake of processed, fatty foods. These types of food are not just bad for your health, they can also have a negative impact on your mood. There is truth to the saying, you are what you eat.

Unhealthy fats and sugars have been linked to depression, anxiety, and addiction. There is such thing as food addiction. Food addiction can include binge eating and comfort eating. Because certain foods can trigger the same areas of the brain that drugs and alcohol do, many people find solace in eating.

There is a connection between diet and exaggerated symptoms of depression and low mood. Sugary, fatty foods cause your blood sugars to spike. Soon after that burst of energy, you will experience a crash in energy levels and mood. Incorporating too many sugars and fats in your diet will have your mood on a roller coaster.

Processed and fatty foods contribute to low mood, but healthy foods boost your mood and energy levels. Here are some specifics on mood-boosting foods:

• Vitamin D is a great way to boost your mood. Vitamin D is also found in sunlight. This explains why some people experience sadness during the winter months. If you want to increase vitamin D levels try eating eggs and milk.
• Protein can counteract carbohydrates. Protein also lifts your mood and energy levels by increasing dopamine and norepinephrine. Protein can be found in eggs, lean meats like poultry, seafood, and plain yogurts.
• Fiber intake increases serotonin and slows down sugar levels in your blood. These processes are wonderful for your mood. Try eating broccoli, oats, fruits, and vegetables to increase your fiber.

Hired Power understands the connection between diet, mood, and recovery.  Hired Power uses innovative approaches to help you get and stay sober. If you want to learn more about the importance of nutrition and recovery, call Hired Power today at 800.910.9299. Hired Power is the expert you need to help you take your first steps towards recovery.