THE GUT-BRAIN CONNECTION

Serotonin is a hormone (neurotransmitter) that leads us to feel happy, calm and content. It is important to remember that about 80 per cent of the serotonin in the body is made in the gut, so supporting good gut health can play a role in how we feel each day. When we think of our mood, we tend to think of it being related to our brain, yet many neurotransmitters are actually made in the gut.

Fermented foods such as sauerkraut are rich in acetic acid which can help promote good stomach acid production and hence great digestion, allowing beneficial microbes to reside in the large intestine, thereby enhancing our mood. You can buy them or make your own.

Dark chocolate is a good source of tryptophan, an amino acid that supports the production of serotonin. Chocolate consumption also drives the brain to produce another chemical called anandamide, which has been shown to temporarily block feelings of pain and depression. Dopamine is also produced when we eat chocolate, and this can have a mood lifting effect on many