How does food affect mood? (By mind.org.uk)

http://www.mind.org.uk/information-support/tips-for-everyday-living/food-and-mood/

How does food affect mood?

There are many explanations for the cause-and-effect relationship between food and mood. The following are some examples:

• Fluctuations in blood sugar levels are associated with changes in mood and energy, and are affected by what we eat.
• Brain chemicals (neurotransmitters, such as serotonin, dopamine and acetylcholine) influence the way we think, feel and behave. They can be affected by what we've eaten.
• There can be abnormal reactions to artificial chemicals in foods, such as artificial colourings and flavourings.
• There are reactions that can be due to the deficiency of an enzyme needed to digest a food. Lactase, for instance, is needed to digest lactose (milk sugar). Without it, a milk intolerance can build up.
• People can become hypersensitive to foods. This can cause what are known as delayed or hidden food allergies or sensitivities.
• Low levels of vitamins, minerals and essential fatty acids can affect mental health, with some symptoms associated with particular nutritional deficiencies. For example, links have been demonstrated between low levels of certain B-vitamins and symptoms ofschizophrenia, low levels of the mineral zinc and eating disorders, and low levels of omega-3 oils and depression.