The old saying is that you are what you eat, but many people don't realize how much clout that statement truly has. There is a great deal of scientific research that shows that healthy eating can improve your mood and change your whole life. Recent discoveries about food allergies and intolerance have shown that what is ingested has a great affect on the mood and overall health. For instance, those who have gluten intolerance, feel sluggish and depressed when they consume anything with wheat in it. Children with ADHD, or those on the Autistic Spectrum, also show that a strong link exists between their mood and behaviors, in conjunction with the foods they eat.



Sugar Levels and Health

Blood sugar fluctuates throughout the day. What an individual eats can make the fluctuations become more of an extreme. These fluctuations have a great deal of impact on a person's mood. Those who have higher than normal blood sugar levels, will find that they are irritable, and dizzy, during periods when their sugars are higher than normal. On the other side of the spectrum, those who have low blood sugar often feel lethargic and have bouts of anxiety and depression.

Vitamin and Minerals

Research also looks at the vitamin and mineral effects of foods. When a person has a low intake of fatty acids and omega 3's, it can also contribute to an altered mood. In fact, when a person is lacking in a vitamin deficiency, it can mimic numerous mental health concerns. Take for instance the ultra important Vitamin D. When the body is deficient in this vitamin, it can actually cause mental health problems. A low level of this vitamin causes fatigue, mood swings, and even depression. By either adding a supplement or getting ample sunlight, the mental health concerns can be removed by making sure the body has the proper amounts of this vitamin it needs.

A Journal Can Help Define Problem Area

It's amazing how deficiencies within the body are affected by the foods that are eaten. Someone who only eats processed foods full of carbohydrates and sugars will find that they gain weight and fight depression and other things. For some deficiencies, adding a simple supplement can fix the issue. Those who are struggling with such issue should keep a food journal. Though the task is tedious, it can prove to be beneficial.

If there is a pattern that develops it may be time to talk to a doctor or a nutritionist. Nutrition is important for everyone. Pregnant women should be especially careful about their nutrition for obvious reasons. Even if the plans are to go for infant adoption option, it is still important to make sure the baby is healthy. In addition to keeping healthy eating habits, it is just as important to focus on exercising daily. Especially during pregnancy it is recommended to do yoga for healthy growth of the baby. Yoga can be done in your living room or in your backyard but it is important to have a clean and healthy environment to do so. For example, make sure to do a thorough carpet cleaning for dust and make sure the weather is good for your health so you don’t get sick further.

Change Is Never Easy-Start Small

It is very difficult to change your diet and start eating healthy. This is especially true of those people who have always had poor eating habits. Just keep things simple and it will become simple to maintain. Don't follow any plans that require eating cabbage soup three times a day. Being healthy means cutting out certain foods that can lead to the decline of your physical and mental being. Start slowly by removing the bad foods and replacing them with good ones. Do some experimentation and see what grains, vegetables, and fruits are desirable. Not every fruit and veggie will be appetizing to everyone. Learn to love foods that perhaps have never been explored.

Slow and Steady Wins the Race


Even if small changes are made at a gradual pace, anything that is done with the goal of being healthier will make a difference. There will be times when falling off the wagon is inevitable, but it's getting back up and starting again. Making changes to improve one's emotional and physical health are never easy. However, don't be discouraged. Missteps should be learning experiences and a guide for making healthier choices for tomorrow.