GOOD MOOD FOOD by Charlotte Watts

Although it contains over 70 recipes, this is much more than another cookerybook. The food we eat gives us energy and profoundly affects our moods. Unbalanced blood sugar and hormone levels in particular are well known aggravators, but they can respond well to correct nutrition. Stress and anxiety compound a bad situation so practical advice on breathing, exercise and sleeping well are included alongside dietary recommendations. There is a chapter on female hormones which can be responsible for mood swings, particularly around PMS and the menopause. Vitamins, fats and supplements are covered in depth and suggestions for an eating plan supports the message that a solid nutritional framework is necessary to support a long- term sense of good mood. The final analysis of a healthy balanced diet is reduced to four factors: freshness, variety, food in a natural state and plenty of fluids and fibre.

320pp, 135 x 215 mm, Paperback, 2018