You “Feel” What You Eat

You have to eat to live. That much is certain.

But food does far more than just keep us alive. It can be a shared experience. A fun adventure. A way to learn about other cultures or a new city. 

And it can bring comfort when we’re sad, healing when we’re sick, and rekindle fond memories of days gone by.

With so much emotion tied up into foods, it shouldn’t be a surprise that changing what you eat may impact how you feel.

And help beat back depression, low energy, poor motivation and more. 

Now, when you eat a sugary dessert, it fires up the reward center in your brain. Then when the effect wears off, you can crash. Both physically and emotionally. 

But research shows that people eating more fruits and vegetables have the highest feelings of happiness, most satisfaction with their lives, and a greater sense of well-being.

Friend, getting your fruits and veggies doesn’t have to be boring. And it can often deliver a similar degree of sweet satisfaction, without the crash.

If you combine leafy greens with frozen fruit in a blended smoothie, especially if you add protein (either a high quality powder or additions like nuts or seeds), you’ll enjoy the taste, absorb the nutrients, and the fiber and protein will help prevent that “roller coaster” feeling that follows a sweet reward.

As we get older, it’s common to worry about our brains. Any time we misplace our keys, or walk into a room and forget why, it’s worrying. 

But just as brain foods like fatty fish, flax seeds, greens, nuts and blueberries can fortify our brains, the opposite can be true too. If your diet contains too many processed foods, you’re more likely to feel sad, scattered, or forgetful. 

Processed foods also trigger inflammation throughout your body, from your gut to your joints, and more. That’s why fruits and veggies are key. 

They’re packed with antioxidants, which tamp down this persistent inflammation – and protect our health in the long run.

You know I’m not a zealot when it comes to food. I like to treat myself all the time. 

But most of the time, I’m focused on a balanced, healthy, low sugar diet with a focus on lean meats, eggs, seeds and nuts, healthy fats, and plenty of fruits and veggies. 

There’s nothing wrong with a cookie here or some pizza there. But if you do indulge, take notice how you feel afterwards. 

It can be a real eye opener, especially if you’re already taking steps to eat healthier, most of the time.