If you’ve been feeling a little moody lately (or if those PMS symptoms are getting you down), perhaps it’s time to look at your diet. You might be lacking in a few important nutrients that could be the reason why your happiness levels are down and you feel lethargic and unmotivated
Let’s put the pep back in your step and the smile back in your face!
Magnesium – its role in the development of serotonin means it is a major contributor to how happy you feel throughout the day. Low levels of magnesium have been linked to a higher risk of depression.
Chromium – helps the body regulate insulin, which in turn regulates your brain’s level of serotonin, norepinephrine, and melatonin, the chemicals your brain uses to manage emotion and mood. While a standard, well-balanced diet should ease
Calcium – low levels of calcium can have a negative effect, particularly in women. Studies have found that those deficient in calcium tend to suffer more intense PMS symptoms, and are more prone to PMS-related depression
Iron – having adequate levels of iron ensures that your body is in top form, fighting off fatigue, apathy, and mood swings.
Vitamin B6 – Neurotransmitters, the chemical messengers in charge of getting information from your brain to the rest of your body, love vitamin B6.
Vitamin B12 – a deficiency of B12 commonly results in fatigue, slowed reasoning, and even paranoia in some cases. Conversely, higher levels of the vitamin allow the body to synthesize optimal conditions for the brain to send and receive signals, which plays a large part in your mood.
Vitamin D – If you’re feeling consistently down in the dumps, an increase in Vitamin D may be all it takes to lift your spirits. Much like calcium, low levels of vitamin D have been associated with symptoms of depression in both men and women.