Mom's Online Retreat » Mood Food

Five Mood Foods

Lauren — Fri, 04 Dec 2009 15:15:22 +0000

Have you heard the saying, “We are what we eat?” It’s true enough. But, we also change how we feel according to what we eat. Here are some examples of five foods that can alter our moods—for the better.

Eating comfort foods makes us feel better. Our brain releases endorphins as we enjoy every satisfying bite. Did you know that? Food makes us feel good. Some foods make us feel better than others but here they are.

1. Tea – Drinking tea does wonders for the body. The caffeine in tea has been linked to improvements in mood. Caffeine increases alertness and our ability to function well. Many people rely on caffeine each day in some form to wake up and get the body moving. The rush we feel motivates us to get going with our daily tasks. Tea is healthier than drinking soda. There are many kinds of tea. Green tea provides antioxidants to the body. Antioxidants prevent disease and slow the aging process.

2. Chocolate – Women always knew they were right. This is not just any chocolate though. Dark chocolate contains the largest percentage of pure cocoa. It works to increase our mood. Serotonin levels rise and so do the happy feelings. People who ate chocolate on a consistent basis noticed they had more energy as well as a better outlook on life. Besides that, the calories obtained from this chocolate don’t outweigh the benefits of eating dark chocolate. The rest of the diet can be adjusted to account for it.

3. Salmon – This cold water fish contains vitamin D as well as omega-3 fatty acids. Vitamin D is synthesized by skin cells after exposure to the sun. When the sun is not as forthcoming like in the winter months, we have to obtain it from other sources. The canned variety of salmon and fortified milk along with some vegetables provides vitamin D to our bodies along with supplements. Vitamin D increases serotonin which has to do with mood.

4. Walnuts – Most tree nuts are good for you. They contain nutrients vital to health and healthy fats. Walnuts contain omega-3 fatty acids just like salmon.

5. Lentils – Lentils are part of the legume and bean family. They provide protein for the body to build muscle. Lentils release a lot of fiber when we eat them. Insoluble fiber carries a measure of fat from the food we eat out of the body as it passes through the digestive system. Folate is a component of lentils and it deals with brain activity and health.

Are you looking for something good to eat? These five foods are good for you and good to you. Using them as a component of a healthy diet boosts mood and health.

Tags: Mood Food

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Pumpkin Bread Pudding

Lauren — Tue, 27 Oct 2009 16:02:42 +0000

With a quick prep time, this yummy comfort food is something you can make up on a weekend morning, or as part of the dessert menu for any occasion. Good as a breakfast, a dessert or an evening snack! Toast, and cube the croissants ahead of time to save a step later.

Serve it warm with a little icecream, or cold topped with whipped creme, or serve as is.

Ingredients:
6 large croissants, toasted and cubed
1 can (16 oz.) pumpkin puree (not pie filling)
1 cup milk
1/2 cup cream
1/8 cup molasses
1 cup brown sugar
2 eggs
1 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
1 teaspoon vanilla
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/2 cup sugar

For topping –
3-4 T. butter (cubed)
brown sugar
cinnamon

Preparation:
1. Combine all ingredients and put the bread in last.

2. Spread evenly in a casserole dish and sprinkle top with some extra brown sugar and cinnamon. Place cubes of butter on top to help create a nice brown sugar topping.

3. Bake at 350 degrees F for 15 – 20 minutes. Let it cool some before serving.

Tags: breakfast, Holiday Eats, Mood Food

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40 Minute Chili

Lauren — Sat, 14 Oct 2006 02:17:47 +0000

Definitely a comfort food! My mother-in-law’s recipe-thankfully I make it as good as she does!

2T. margine
1 med. onion, minced
1 clove garlic, minced (optional, but I add it)
1-1/2 lbs. lean ground beef
3 cans tomato soup
1-1/2C water
3 cans dark red kidney beans, drained and rinsed
3T. chili powder (my husband swears it has to be McCormick brand)
1/2t. salt & dash of pepper

Saute minced onion and garlic in margarine. Add ground beef and brown. Drain off excess grease, if necessary.
Stir in remaining ingredients. Cover and simmer over low heat for 30 minutes, stirring occasionally. Garnish as desired-ENJOY!!!

Tags: Mood Food