Posted Dec 17, 2010
CERTAIN amount of fat in our diets is vital for good mental health.
In a study at the University of Sheffield, people on low-fat regimes were found to be much more likely to get angry than those who ate more.
Low-fat diets are linked to reduced levels of serotonin, the ‘feel good’ chemical that lifts your mood in times of emotional stress.
Sunflower seeds are rich in ‘good’ unsaturated fats that do not clog arteries. A handful a day can provide the fat you need to stay happy while keeping a healthy diet.
Sunflower seeds are also high in magnesium, which helps to stabilise mood — according to some early studies of bipolar disease.
A study at the University of Pavia in Italy found magnesium may also improve premenstrual-related depression. Other good sources of magnesium include beans, broccoli and nuts — particularly Brazil nuts.