Friday, September 3, 2010

BOOST YOUR MOOD

EAT SMART

The foods you choose can also affect your mood. "Low levels or actual deficiency of such nutrients as omega-3 fatty acids, zinc, selenium, chromium, vitamin D, and the B vitamins folic acid and B12 are all associated with human depressive symptoms," says Alan C. Logan, naturopathic physician and author of The Brain Diet (Cumberland House, 2007). However, Ronald Pies, M.D., clinical professor of psychiatry at Tufts University School of Medicine and professor of psychiatry at SUNY Upstate Medical University, Syracuse, adds that there's no solid evidence to date that specific foods or nutrients can boost a person's mood under normal circumstances. The key, he notes, is moderation. "A nutritious, well-balanced diet is very important for maintaining a normal mood."


HAVE MORE FISH

Omega-3 fatty acids, found in fish, fish oils, and flaxseed, are being studied for their mood-boosting properties. Specifically, research suggests that eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA), an omega-3 found in oily fish, may be especially effective against depression. Though the jury is still out on all of the potential benefits of omega-3s, many experts say it's worth giving them a try. "Consider adding more omega-3 fatty acids to your diet, if not to boost mood, then to improve your overall cardiovascular fitness," says Ronald Pies, M.D., clinical professor of psychiatry at Tufts University School of Medicine and professor of psychiatry at SUNY Upstate Medical University, Syracuse. "This can be easily done by increasing your dietary consumption of certain fish, such as salmon or herring." You can also get fish oil in supplement form.

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