As the holiday season beginnings to wind down I am sure that we are all busting out of our favorite clothes. As you sit back and reminisce about all that exhilarating food you had, do you remember anytime during the holiday span that you did not act like yourself?

Days when you were just miserable for no reason, yet feeling totally fine the next day? That yo-yo effect of mood changes is a high possibility around this time of year. There is quite a bit going on with us physically and physiologically this time of year. So relax, and if your mood has been changing its possible I might have found one of the reasons!

We all know what fat does to the body and our health but what about how we feel? Well the surprising fact is that if you do not take in enough fat you can become quite moody. Not enough fat?

No, that was not a typo…

Yet, the fat I am talking about is the good fat, polyunsaturated (omega-3) fat. Not receiving enough of this fat can lead to depression, impulsivity, and potential memory loss. Where can you find this fat? Most fish, walnuts, eggs, and meats are great sources of this polyunsaturated fat.

On the contrary, saturated fat will have a negative effect on your mood. So, all those greasy foods (potato chips, fried chicken, french fries) won’t be the best foods on your holiday menu. These greasy foods can potentially lead to dementia and a melancholy day. So, up with the good fat and down with the bad.

Lastly, I am guessing most of you guys have been taking in those carbs, which is a good thing in regards to keeping a good mood. Many people try to cut their carbs because they hear “carbs equal fat” or “if you want to lose weight, cut the carbs” which is far from true.

Without receiving the proper amount of carbs the serotonin (feel good hormone) levels will drop and your appetite will not subside. Talk about feeling the blues! To prevent this from happening you will want your carbs to make up around 55% of your daily calories. Staying away from a bad mood is always the best option especially during the holidays. Tis the season of happiness. I wish you all on continuing a joyful holiday. See you next year!

-Phil