Psychology and Nutrition are two related disciplines, and in recent years the Psychology of Food has been gaining ground. There is a growing awareness of how our emotions affect how we eat and how we eat affects our emotional state. Of course, it also affects our general health.

In this article we will review the most important aspects of the Psychology of Eating and we will go into the different foods that have an impact on our emotional state.

Food and emotions

The relationship between food and emotions is a phenomenon that has aroused the interest of researchers, who understand that food influences our moods, but also our emotions influence food. For example, when we are stressed we tend to eat worse, which also happens when we are bored.

In fact, the eating disorder “Night Eater Syndrome” is well known and is closely related to anxiety and depression, which you can learn more about in our article: “Night Eater Syndrome: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment of this Eating Disorder.

Studies also suggest that emotions are key in losing weight , because when we enjoy emotional balance, it is easier for us to adhere to a diet and thus achieve our goals. According to research by the Consumer Reports National Research Center, involving 1,300 psychologists who answered questions about their work with clients who have weight loss problems, they concluded that emotions can get in the way of a weight loss plan.

  • If you want to know more about this topic, you can read our article: “Emotions are the main obstacle to lose weight”

What effect emotional nutrition has on our body

What we eat influences our general health, because the nutrients in food allow us to have an optimal level of energy and allow us to supply the body with the substances it requires for its proper functioning.

Foods also influence our moods because some contain amino acids and other chemicals, such as tryptophan, which is a precursor of serotonin, a neurotransmitter associated with happiness, which at low levels is associated with depression and obsession.

Emotional foods: what are they?

Now, what foods influence our mood? A study by the University of Warwick and Dartmouth College attempted to provide scientific evidence on the foods that have the greatest influence on mood. The results conclude that they are as follows.

1. Strawberries

Strawberries are a delicious fruit that are ideal when accompanied by cream. Besides being an aphrodisiac food, it also seems to be ideal for improving emotional state. And… why? Because of vitamin C, which has proved to be an excellent protector of endorphins , hormones related to pleasure, euphoria and sexuality. Also, the potassium they contain, seems to be key to regulate the nervous system.

2. Cherries

Another delicious fruit that also influences people’s mood is cherries. On a physical level, they are good for reducing uric acid levels and are used in preventive treatment against gout and contain anti-inflammatory properties . They are antioxidants so they fight free radicals. On a psychological level, they have a great influence on bad moods, anxiety and stress levels.

3. Oats

Oat is a high-protein cereal that contains many antioxidants and vitamins and, because of this, has many physical and emotional health benefits. Regarding the latter, provides vitality, that is, it fights fatigue and low energy levels . In this sense, it also improves mood.

  • It’s also an excellent weight-loss food, as you can see in our article: “24 fat-burning (and highly healthy) foods”

4. Milk and its derivatives

Dairy products are a great source of vitamin A and B, and minerals, among which are calcium and phosphorus . They are also rich in high-quality proteins, and their amino acids help improve memory and mood. Some studies claim that milk is relaxing because it contains tryptophan, which, as I mentioned, increases serotonin levels, which is related to positive mood.

5. Eggs

In addition to milk, eggs are also rich in vitamins, minerals and high-quality proteins, so they have the same benefits as milk and its derivatives.

  • If you want to know more about its properties, in our article “20 very rich protein foods”

6. Chocolate

Few foods are more delicious than chocolate. But only the high-cocoa versions are healthy. Chocolate releases dopamine and therefore other pleasure-related neurochemicals such as endorphins , serotonin and phenylethylamine. Therefore, it is good for improving mood and according to some studies helps you relax. However, its consumption should be moderate.

7. Spinach

Since childhood we have always been told to eat spinach, especially for its iron and vitamin C content. But spinach too is rich in folic acid, which seems to increase serotonin levels and, thanks to this, improves mood.

8. Fish

Fish, mainly those rich in omega-3 fatty acids, should also be included in this list, as it seems that may be the key to alleviating depression and anxiety in a completely natural way . Some fish rich in these healthy fats are: mackerel, sardine or salmon.

9. Pineapple

Pineapple is a very versatile exotic fruit, which can be added to salads and pizzas . It seems to promote the production of serotonin, which helps to improve mood, calm and bring more vitality. It also seems to help with sleep.

10. Nuts

Research suggests that nuts may have properties that influence mood , as without foods rich in vitamin B, protein and selenium. Selenium is a mineral that may positively influence mood, and studies suggest that diets rich in this mineral help clearer minds, greater self-confidence, less anxiety, and less confusion.