Food & Mood

Food and mood are so deeply intertwined, and yet, in a world where every scroll brings a new trend or a fresh set of rules, it can feel overwhelming to even begin. I know, because I’ve felt it too. The endless advice, the “perfect” plates, the pressure to get it right—it can make us forget that eating, at its core, is about nourishment, connection, and yes, even joy. 

We all have our own unique journey with food. Some days, it’s a rainbow salad, with delicious balsamic vinaigrette, made with love and shared with friends. Other days, it’s grabbing what’s easy because life is just too much. And that’s okay. Because food isn’t just fuel; it’s comfort, it’s culture, it’s a way we care for ourselves when the world feels uncertain. I have days when I am so encouraged to tell you about all the wonderful dishes you can prepare using plant-based foods and create a rainbow of deliciousness that we can discuss for days, and other times, I may feel tempted to just grab the easiest thing in site (which is more reason for me to avoid keeping junk food in the house, even at my most disciplined moment, after all, health coaches are imperfect too, surprise!).

Let's quickly look at some of the physiological issues around food and mood.

Imagine your body as a home that thrives on balance. When you eat foods that keep your blood sugar steady—whole grains, veggies, healthy proteins—your brain gets a steady fuel supply, and you feel calm, focused, and even-tempered. But when you reach for sugary treats or refined carbs, your blood sugar can spike and then crash, leaving you feeling foggy, irritable, or anxious. It’s that “hangry” feeling you might know all too well, and it’s your body’s way of asking for more stable nourishment.

Now, let's talk about inflammation. Inflammation is like a quiet storm inside your body. Foods high in sugar, unhealthy fats, or processed ingredients can trigger this storm, sending out little signals that, over time, can cloud your mood and make you feel low, tired, or even more stressed. This happens because inflammation can disrupt the delicate balance of brain chemicals that keep you feeling good and resilient.

On the flip side, when you choose foods rich in antioxidants, fiber, and healthy fats—think colorful fruits, nuts, leafy greens, and fatty fish—you’re helping to calm that storm. Your body and brain get the support they need to stay balanced, so you feel more like yourself, even on challenging days.

Our moods ebb and flow, and so does our relationship with food. When stress is high, that’s when it is easy to reach for what’s familiar or comforting, and sometimes that means letting go of the “shoulds” and honoring what our bodies and hearts are asking for in the moment. It’s not about perfection or strict rules, but about noticing how different foods make you feel. Even small, kind choices for yourself—like swapping a sugary snack for a handful of nuts or adding a splash of color to your plate—can make a gentle, positive difference in your mood and energy.

So often when I talk to clients, they share their experiences browsing the web, going through social media outlets, and watching reel after reel, video after video, ad after ad, leaving their heads spinning, frustrated, and ready to throw in the towel. The truth is that social media can flood us with images of what “eating well” is supposed to look like, but it often leaves out the messy, real-life moments where we’re just trying to make it through the day. It’s easy to feel discouraged, especially when the world feels so uncertain and our moods are as unpredictable as the weather. But here, in this space, there’s no judgment—just encouragement, understanding, and the gentle reminder that every meal is a chance to start fresh.

I invite you to stay in community right here, and move forward together, celebrating the small victories, sharing what nourishes us—whether it’s a wheatgrass shot for a morning boost, a comforting bowl of soup, or a homemade dessert that brings a smile. Let’s remind each other that our journeys are our own, and that building resilience is about progress, not perfection. 

So, next time you’re in the kitchen or scrolling for inspiration, remember: you’re not alone. We’re all figuring it out, one meal at a time. And together, we can create a community where food and mood are met with kindness, curiosity, and a whole lot of support.

Contact me to discuss how you can live a more vibrant lifestyle and the many options we offer to assist you on your journey.