Benefits Of Sleep

7 Food Ingredients That Are Destroying Your Mood

Food not only affects your waistline, but it can also affect how you think, act and feel emotionally. Many foods or food additives we consume can wreak major havoc on our nervous system, resulting in moodiness, fatigue, anxiety and even depression. The tiniest hidden traces of these mood-wrecking foods can leave you feeling down. Know what foods to look for to ensure your mood isn’t compromised.

1.
White flour



The fact that white flour is bad for your health isn’t necessarily groundbreaking nutrition information. However, this powdery white substance also sneaks its way into foods like soups and salad dressing by acting as a thickening agent. Because of its empty calories and high blood glucose content, even a small amount can cause mood swings and hunger pains. 


Rule of thumb: If it’s white, don’t take a single bite. Instead, choose 100% whole grains or gluten-free options.

2.
FD & C Red No. 40




This food dye is one of the most commonly used dyes. Its sole purpose is to make food colorful and enhance the flavor, and it's hidden in everything from frosting and chips to sports drinks and fruit snacks. However, don’t let the bright color or tastes fool you: this additive is linked to hypersensitivity and ADHD among children and adults. 


Rule of thumb: Don’t be misled, stay away from RED. Ensure even your favorite organic snacks are free and clear of this harmful dye. 

3.

Hydrogenated oils




Hydrogenated oils are processed oils that are used by manufacturers to extend the shelf life of products. Hydrogenated oils are also responsible for creating trans fat in foods. Trans fat is shown to increase cholesterol levels and increase weight since your body has to work extra hard to digest it. It can also cause brain fog and severe moodiness. 


Rule of thumb: The shorter the expiration date, the better for your weight. (And your happiness!) Opt for products that expire within a week or two. And always choose healthy oils like organic coconut oil or organic extra virgin olive oil.

4.
Aspartame


Aspartame is an ingredient used to sweeten “sugar-free” products on the market. While you might think you're doing yourself a favor by skipping the sugar, you might want to think twice. Aspartame is a chemical that has been shown to cause headaches, digestive issues and even seizures. 


Rule of thumb: If it says sugar free, it most likely means hazardous chemical concoction. Instead, sweeten foods with 100% raw cane sugar, coconut sugar or raw honey.

5.
FD & C Yellow No. 5


Our bodies aren't meant to process chemicals, and that certainly applies to this one. Yellow no. 5 is a food dye most commonly found in cookies, soft drinks and even gum. If a product contains high quantities of yellow food dye, it can give food or drinks a yellowish glow. This food dye has been linked to asthma, allergic reactions and mood disorders. 

Rule of thumb: If it contains yellow, say hell NO! Always take caution before eating foods or candies that are extremely colorful, as they're more likely to contain food dyes.

6.
Monosodium glutamate



Monosodium glutamate, also known as MSG, is commonly used in packaged foods to enhance flavor and extend shelf life. Many products like chips, soups and frozen meals contain MSG. Consuming even small amounts of this ingredient can lead to light-headedness, nausea, feelings of anxiety and weakness. 


Rule of thumb: If it contains MSG, it’s no good to me! (or my body!) But be careful; the FDA(Food & Drug Administration) doesn’t require MSG to be listed as an ingredient. Always choose products that are organic or labeled “MSG Free.”

7.
Sugar
Sugar is hidden in almost every processed and packaged food, including chips, sauces, fruit juices, cereals and energy bars. Sugar is often disguised by one of its many names: dextrose, fructose, corn syrup, lactose and sucrose. Eating foods that are high in sugar can contribute to health issues such as diabetes, thyroid issues, depression and weight gain. 

Rule of thumb: When sugar is a main ingredient, opt for a sweet fruit as a supplement. If you really have a fix for something sweet, opt for a healthier version of your favorite treat.

90+ Activities To Reduce Stress

1. Get up 15 minutes earlier

2. Prepare for the morning the night before

3. Avoid tight fitting clothes

4. Avoid relying on chemical aids

5. Set appointments ahead

6. Don't rely on your memory ... write it down

7. Practice preventive maintenance

8. Make duplicate keys

9. Say "no" more often

10.Set priorities in your life

11. Avoid negative people

12. Use time wisely

13. Simplify meal times

14. Always make copies of important papers

15. Anticipate your needs

16.. Repair anything that doesn't work properly

17. Ask for help with the jobs you dislike

18. Break large tasks into bite size portions

19. Look at problems as challenges

20. Look at challenges differently

21. Un-clutter your life

22. Smile

23. Be prepared for rain

24. Tickle a baby

25. Pet a friendly dog/cat

26. Don't know all the answers

27. Look for a silver lining

28. Say something nice to someone

29. Teach a kid to fly a kite

30. Walk in the rain

31. Schedule play time into every day

32. Take a bubble bath

33. Be aware of the decisions you make

34. Believe in yourself

35. Stop saying negative things to yourself

36. Visualize yourself winning

37. Develop your sense of humor

38. Stop thinking tomorrow will be a better today

39. Have goals for yourself

40. Get enough sleep

41. Say "hello" to a stranger

42. Ask a friend for a hug

43. Look up at the stars

44. Practice breathing slowly

45. Practice a monster smile

46. Keep a journal

47. Quit trying to fix other people

48. Have a support network of people, places and things

49. Read a story curled up in bed

50. Do a brand new thing

51. Stop a bad habit

52. Buy yourself a flower

53. Take time to small the flowers

54. Find support from others

55. Ask someone to be your "vent-partner"

56. Do it today

57. Work at being cheerful and optimistic

58. Put safety first

59. Do everything in moderation

60. Pay attention to your appearance

61. Strive for Excellence NOT perfection

62. Stretch your limits a little each day

63. Look at a work of art

64. Talk less and listen more

65. Maintain your weight

66. Plant a tree

67. Feed the birds

68. Practice grace under pressure

69. Stand up and stretch

70. Always have a plan "B"

71. Learn a new doodle

72. Memorize a joke

73. Be responsible for your feelings

74. Learn to meet your own needs

75. Become a better listener

76. Know your limitations and let others know them, too

77. Tell someone to have a good day in Latin

78. Throw a paper airplane

79. Exercise every day

80. Freely praise other people

81. Get to work early

82. Clean out one closet

83. Play patty cake with a toddler

84. Go on a picnic

85. Take a different route to work

86. Leave work early (with permission)

87. Put air freshener in your car

88.. Eat popcorn

89. Write a note to a far away friend

90. Go to a ball game and scream

91. Cook a meal and eat it by candlelight

92. Recognize the importance of unconditional love

93. Remember that stress is an attitude 94. Remember God several times a day.

95. Remember you always have options