B1–1

We all feel happy to be alive in the summer, but it may not only be the warmer weather that makes us feel this.

Although we think we choose what to eat because it tastes good, in fact we make unconscious choices based on the way food makes us feel. Summer foods like seafood and salads are full of chemicals that put us in a good mood.

One chemical that is found in high protein foods is serotonin.It makes you feel calm and relaxed. It can be found in coffee and tea, ginger and honey as well. The best source of serotonin is spinach which also contains folic acid in large quantities. A deficiency in folic acid can cause depression, sleeplessness,forgetfulness and irritability.

Fish is an ideal brain food as it contains high levels of the mineral selenium,which can affect how you feel. A lack of selenium in your diet can produce tiredness and depression. Besides fish, sunflower seeds, cereals , grapes and chicken are good sources.

Chillies is a food that will cheer you up instantly.They can have a dramatic effect on your mood. Eating a dish containing chillies leads to giving you a sense of well-being. But the experience can become addictive, causing people to search out stronger and stronger chillies.

A slower acting but longer lasting antidepressant called DMAE can be found in anchovies and sardines. DMAE also heightens intelligence and makes it easier to learn.

So if you have got an important exam coming up, make sure you eat all these foods that keep you feeling good and thinking clearly.