Did you know that food can alter your mood? Of course you do.

A bit of chocolate: sweet bliss. Thank your endorphins.

Turkey sandwich: calm, even drowsiness. Tyrosine, an amino acid, is the trigger.

But did you know that if you eat protein with little carbs, you can amp your alertness (except the aforementioned turkey)? Want calm? Go for carbs alone. Research backs the effect of mood on food. Generally the effect is subtle. If curious, read more in my book Energy Eating, out of print but available through Amazon.

Here’s a calming recipe. Lots of noodles for your noodle. Enjoy. 

Spicy Sesame Noodles

1 pound whole-wheat soba noodles or regular linguini

1 Tbs. sesame oil

6 scallions, green parts only, sliced

1 red bell pepper, sliced

1 tsp. peeled and minced gingerroot

1/2 cup fresh cilantro leaves

1/2 tsp. cayenne pepper, or to taste

2 tsp. low-sodium soy sauce

1/4 cup toasted sesame seeds

Prepare the noodles according to the package directions. Drain. Transfer to a serving dish. Cover. In a medium skillet, heat the oil over medium-high heat and saute the scallions, red bell pepper, and gingerroot for 2 minutes. Add the cilantro, cayenne, and soy sauce, and saute a minute more. Toss with the noodles. Sprinkle the sesame seeds on top. Serve warm or cold. Serves 6.

You Are Loved, Lucy