The Good Mood Diet is a diet and book created by nutritionist Susan Kleiner. According to Kleiner's website, the Good Mood Diet can help you feel good and lose weight by consuming balanced amounts of carbohydrates, protein and fats. The diet restricts "bad mood" foods, such as sugar, and encourages foods that improve physical and emotional wellness. Kleiner's top-recommended "feel good" foods include fruits, vegetables, milk and egg yolks. For best results, seek your doctor's approval before making significant dietary changes.
Eggs/Egg Yolks
Egg yolks provide phospholipids--fat molecules that support cell membrane production and brain function--and choline, an essential nutrient that also contributes to brain function. For these reasons, Kleiner recommends consuming one egg yolk daily. Since egg yolks contain notable amounts of saturated fat and dietary cholesterol, you may wish to prepare multiple egg whites, which are low in fat and high in protein, in addition to one yolk. One egg daily fits within the American Heart Association's guidelines for fat and cholesterol intake. According to Kleiner, egg yolks may also slow the progression of diseases, including Parkinson's and Alzheimer's disease.
Milk
Milk provides tryptophan, a chemical that boosts "feel good" hormone levels in the brain. Milk also contains carbohydrates, which must be consumed in order for tryptophan to provide mood-enhancing benefits. Consuming whey protein--the protein found in milk--in combination with carbohydrates may also reduce negative emotions, such as anger, anxiety, irritability and frustration, according to Kleiner, and reduce stress. Whey protein also supplies amino acids, which support lean tissue growth, recovery and repair. Milk is also a valuable protein source; it digests slowly and can help keep you fuller longer after meals. For these reasons, milk is recommended by the "good mood food" plan. You may also enjoy other dairy products, such as yogurt, cottage cheese and protein shakes made from whey protein. Low-fat milk and other dairy products contain fewer calories and less fat than full-fat renditions, such as whole milk. Milk also provides valuable nutrients, including calcium and vitamin D.
Fruits and Vegetables
Fruits and vegetables provide an assortment of vitamins, minerals, antioxidants and dietary fiber. All fruits and vegetables are accepted and encouraged as part of the Good Mood Diet. In particular, Kleiner recommends ample intake of antioxidant-rich fruits, such as blueberries, oranges and a variety of beans. Since Kleiner discourages intake of "bad mood foods," such as sugar and white flour, during the first two weeks of the plan, consuming plentiful amounts of fruits and vegetables can help stave off hunger. Fresh fruit provides a natural sweet alternative to conventional desserts. Aim for a variety of fresh, colorful fruits and vegetables daily for best potential results.
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