How foods affect your hormones

Average rating:

Wholefoods are fresh foods that are found naturally, such as fruit, whole grains, nuts and seeds. They're full of nutrients that give you a serotonin boost. Serotonin is a 'feel good' brain chemical, which controls your sleep as well as your moods. Wholefoods are absorbed into the body slowly, which gives your brain a steady supply of blood sugar - keeping your mood stable and making you less prone to mood swings. They're also a good source of magnesium, which helps ward off anxiety and irritability.

Protein isn't stored by the body so you need to eat a daily dose of it. Protein stops your body's blood sugar levels falling but it also produces amino acids, which manage brain cells. In particular, Vitamin B3 that helps combat depression. Meat, soya, peanuts and brown rice are all sources of protein. Vegetarians and vegans can get protein from meat substitutes such as Quorn, tofu, pulses, soya and dark-green leafy vegetables.

Sugary foods and meals with preservatives are a big no-no on this diet as sugar boosts your serotonin levels initially, but it doesn't last very long and you soon start craving sugar again. This creates a vicious cycle and can make you put on weight. By eating the right carbs you can get enough sugar without your moods being all over the place.

Read on... Is this diet right for you?

By Vicky Woollaston