Food & Mood

Aloha ‘Ohana,

Here is an important message from our registered dietitian.

Did you know that food affects your mood?

The connection between diet and emotions stems from the close relationship between your brain and your gastrointestinal tract, often called the “second brain.” Here’s how it works: Your GI tract is home to billions of bacteria that influence the production of neurotransmitters, chemical substances that constantly carry messages from the gut to the brain. (Dopamine and serotonin are two common examples.)

Eating healthy food promotes the growth of “good” bacteria, which in turn positively affects neurotransmitter production. A steady diet of junk food, on the other hand, can cause inflammation that hampers production. When neurotransmitter production is in good shape, your brain receives these positive messages loud and clear, and your emotions reflect it. But when production goes awry, so might your mood.

If you want to learn more, call (808) 293-9231 to set up an appointment with our registered dietitian. As always, our entire staff looks forward to your call.

#bewell
#staywell
#eatwell