Been feeling Emo lately?  One thing to look at may be a change in your diet.

As described in nutritionist Sue Gilbert's excellent article on the effects of food on mood, a low carb diet has the effect of lowering serotonin, a chemical that has the effect of reducing pain and producing a sense of calm.  For relaxation and anti-stress, Sue suggests whole grain breads and crackers, whole grain pasta, rice, cereal, and fruits.  Stay away from the refined stuff like soda, candy and syrup.

Caffeine can be an effective anti-depressant.  One or two cups a day can help lift cases of mild depression.  I've found tea to be a good source for caffeine.  Coffee can lead to increase irritability, nervousness, headaches.  I've find myself bouncing off the walls just after two cups. 

Here are links to some other articles that I've found helpful on this subject:

• Food Mood Relationships by Catherine Christie
• 5 Foods for a Better Mood by Cathy Wong
• Feel Blue?  Try Greens and Other Mood Food by Joy Bauer

 Eat your way to a better mood!