What Foods Make You Happiest? Hint: It’s Not What You Think

**The Connection Between Food and Mood** Research suggests that the food we eat can have a significant impact on our mental health, including our mood.

**The Connection Between Food and Mood**

Research suggests that the food we eat can have a significant impact on our mental health, including our mood. A balanced diet rich in whole foods and minimally processed ingredients can help promote a positive outlook, while a diet high in ultra-processed foods and refined carbohydrates may increase the risk of depression.

**The Science Behind Food and Mood**

In recent years, a new field of study has emerged that examines the relationship between eating habits, dietary factors, and mental health disorders. This specialized branch of psychiatry is known as nutritional psychology, and it aims to identify methods for prevention and treatment of mental health conditions.

As registered dietitian Kristin Kirkpatrick notes, "The field of nutritional psychology has gained traction due to a tremendous amount of high-quality data linking food to beneficial (or worsening) mental health outcomes."

**How Food Affects Mood**

Studies have shown that certain foods can negatively impact mood and increase the risk of depression. These include sweets and ultra-processed foods, which are often high in sugar, low in fiber, and contain artificial additives.

In the long term, consuming too many of these types of foods can begin to affect mental health. Research has found that a diet high in ultra-processed foods and refined carbohydrates can raise a person's risk of developing depression.

**Mood-Boosting Foods**

While scientists are still working to identify which foods have the greatest impact on mood, some experts suggest that whole grains may be a top candidate. Whole grains contain fermentable fiber, which can improve the health of the gut microbiome and lead to an improved mood.

A plant-based Mediterranean diet has been associated with lower rates of depression and improved mental health outcomes. By incorporating more whole foods and minimally processed ingredients into our diets, we may be able to promote a healthier mood and reduce our risk of depression.