Mood-enhancing diet

   Feeling down lately? Yes, I guess you have been watching a lot of cable news, listening to talk radio, or reading the newspaper. While there's not much we can do to change the world's realities, what we consume can actually effect how you feel mentally.
    A recent article by Cara Rosenbloom in the Washington Post entitled "Mood Boosting Foods" detailed things that produce the right mix of nutrients to boost serotonin, the body's natural "feel good" chemical.
     The same foods contribute to brain health, as well as other positive physical effects like lower blood pressure, and reduced risk of cancer and diabetes.
    The key is to eat as natural as possible, with foods that are rich in anti-oxidants. The Mediterranean diet of fruits and vegetables, nuts, lean proteins, whole grain breads, and olive oil is recommended.
     Research cited in the article said following the Mediterranean diet has been shown to improve cognitive abilities the equivalent of being 7.5 years younger! Alzheimer's risk is reduced by over 50% as well.
     It's not one single food that does it, but the blend of things in the diet, and cumulative effect over the years that produce those results. I've always read that a wide variety of natural foods, which supply many different nutrients, is the best way to eat, and this article reinforces that.
      Foods that were specifically mentioned include salmon (Omega 3 fish consumption lowers depression risk); leafy green vegetables (high magnesium content boosts serotonin); blueberries (flavonoids help with brain health and mood enhancement); oysters (high zinc content); and chocolate (in moderation).
   Not surprisingly, the foods that give you instant gratification, like a fast food burger and fries, potato chips, soda and alcohol have been linked to depression, cognitive decline, and Alzheimer's.
    As I've written before, no one is perfect, and everyone will indulge in foods that taste good but have no positive effects, mentally or physically.
    Exercise will help counter-act that, and try to have 90% of your calories count for something, nutrient-wise!
     As far as the news, I wish there was something brilliant I can write, say, or do that would make it better!