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Food Affects Mood

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How, When, and Where Food is Eaten Affects Your Body
How, when, and where food is eaten directly affects the body’s digestion ability. Europeans are well known for taking long, luxurious lunch breaks, during which they drink large quantities of wine, consume high-fat foods, and talk with friends. In the U.S., everything is much more rushed. Multitasking, like eating while talking on the phone, is very common. Quickly, we grab a muffin while running out the door, then eat as we drive. The whole time we are rushing to arrive on time. Studies are now showing that this is a bad habit to have (Illiades, 1). Studies show that Europeans don’t gain weight or have health problems because of their food habits (Illiades, 1). This surprises most people because most Europeans don’t have the healthiest diet. Research shows that because Europeans slow down and take time enjoying their food, their body digests and absorbs the nutrients better than most American’s who are rushing to devour lunch (Gersdorff, 1). The stomach digests food better when the body is relaxed; Europeans eat with friends and have merry conversations creating a pleasant lunch and a happy stomach (Illiades, 1). The moral of the story is that you should do your best to multitask as little as possible during lunch break. Closing your eyes to enjoy food is perfectly acceptable. Take a lunch break with a friend!
Other studies show that what people eat affects their mood. Food provides valuable nutrients, which the body needs to survive and function. The vitamins help heal the body and numerous sundry things. Often people who suffer from depression need to add more selenium to their diet. Selenium is in seafood, nuts, seeds, lean meats, whole grains, and low fat dairy products. In many people, avoiding caffeine improves ones mood and can cause aggravation, and sleep deprivation. Try to eat foods high in vitamin D (found in milk and other things) because it increases serotonin in the brain. Serotonin is a chemical in the brain that regulates mood, function, and various other mechanisms. Another recommended vitamin is folate, which is in legumes, and various fruits. Omega 3 fatty acids are also important to the function of the body and brain, which are in fish (Magee, 1). 
Overall, keep in mind that what, where, and how you eat affects the body, remember these tips next time you choose a meal.