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Food And Mood Connection

Submitted by Stella Morgan on December 5, 2009

The body’s metabolism basically performs the function of breaking down chemical compounds and absorbs essential nutrition for the body and eliminates harmful toxins and other waste. The end result of all these processes is the burning of body fat. Sometimes, however, a person’s metabolic rate is genetically determined, may be affected by an underlying disorder or may even slow down with age. Improper functioning of the body’s metabolism can lead to several problems, mainly, obesity, vitamin deficiency and fatigue.

An improper or unhealthy diet is the main cause for slower or deficient metabolism.

It is thus very important to plan meals and snacks such that they are at regular intervals and help sustain energy levels.

To help increase your metabolism rate, ensure that you drink plenty of water. Water helps keep the body hydrated and flushes out harmful toxins.

Ensure a 1000 calorie intake as too few calories also cause metabolism to slow down. A limited calorie intake also means that you will feel the desire to eat a lot more junk food and eventually harm your metabolism. Make sure that you maintain a regular schedule for meals.

A meal or snack every five hours is an ideal food regiment to maintain a good metabolism. You body will work to absorb and digest food through the day. Also make sure that you increase your intake of protein everyday.

Protein with every meal will help regulate your metabolism. There are several natural herbs that help boost metabolism. These natural ingredients stimulate the adrenal glands and the liver – the primary contributors to the effective functioning of the digestive system. Yellow dock, milk, thistle and dandelion root are effective in stimulating and improving the functioning of the liver. Stinging nettle and astragalus are very effective in improving the functioning of the adrenal glands.

Snacking regularly is an important aspect of boosting your mood. Regular snacking maintains the energy levels of the body, thereby contributing to an overall sense of well being. Moreover, a snack helps contribute vital nutrients and increases the natural chemicals that regulate moods, mainly epinephrine, dopamine and serotonin. Make sure that your snack is rich in fiber and magnesium. Magnesium helps in making energy out of sugar. Finally, Omega-3 oils are also useful in maintaining moods as they help regulate the blood sugar level. Flaxseed and fish are rich sources of protein and Omega-3 oils.

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