FOOD FOR MOOD

HOW foods can affect your state of mind. This week: curry

CURRY contains high levels of turmeric — the active ingredient of which, curcumin, has been shown to improve mood.

A study by Murdoch University in Australia showed taking 500mg of the spice twice daily reduced symptoms of depression in four to eight weeks.

‘Turmeric is anti-inflammatory and inflammation is associated with depression,’ says Dr Alexander Sumich, a biological psychologist at Nottingham Trent University.

‘Inflammation affects the brain’s conversion of tryptophan into the mood-boosting serotonin — instead, turning it into picolinic acid, associated with depression.’

As little as a half teaspoon of turmeric a day can reduce inflammation, but for a true anti-depressive effect you’ll need far higher levels via a supplement.