Proper nutrition brings happiness!
Our diet does not only affect our physical condition but also our mood. Research shows that the foods we consume play a crucial role in our mental well-being, either enhancing happiness or increasing stress and fatigue.
On the occasion of the International Day of Happiness on March 20th, it is worth exploring how proper nutrition can become an ally in maintaining a positive mood and overall well-being. From vitamins and antioxidants to healthy fats and proteins, every element of our diet can influence brain function and the production of hormones linked to happiness.
So, let’s take a look at how our daily dietary choices can help us feel happier, more energetic, and optimistic!
March 20 – International Day of Happiness
The International Day of Happiness was established by the United Nations (UN) on June 28, 2012, and has been celebrated annually on March 20 ever since. In its resolution (A/RES/66/281), the UN General Assembly emphasized that “the pursuit of happiness is a fundamental human goal”, while recognizing “the need for a more equitable and balanced approach to economic growth that can eradicate poverty and promote happiness and well-being for all nations.”
The initiative for this resolution originated from Bhutan, a country that, since the 1970s, has prioritized Gross National Happiness (GNH) over Gross Domestic Product (GDP). In simple terms, Bhutan placed the happiness of its citizens above economic income.
World Happiness Report
Each year, the UN publishes the World Happiness Report, ranking countries based on factors such as:
✔️ Income
✔️ Social support
✔️ Freedom of choice
✔️ Corruption levels
✔️ Health and life expectancy
In 2024, Finland ranked first for the seventh consecutive year, while Afghanistan remained at the bottom of the list. Greece ranked 64th.
The International Day of Happiness is a reminder that beyond economic growth, kindness, solidarity, and positivity are essential for a truly happy life!
With information from the “Mixani tou xronou”
Emotional well-being and healthy dietary choices
Emotional well-being is a fundamental pillar of our overall health, directly affecting our quality of life, daily choices, and eating habits. Often, our psychological state influences the way we eat, while at the same time, our diet has the power to shape our mood.
Understanding this interaction can help us adopt healthy habits that promote both physical and mental balance.
Proper nutrition is not just a source of energy but a powerful regulator of our mood.
A balanced diet, combined with a healthy lifestyle, can enhance resilience to stress and contribute to overall emotional well-being.
Some key habits include:
✅ Mindful Eating: Eating slowly and savoring each meal allows our body to recognize satiety and properly regulate food intake.
✅ Adequate Hydration: The brain is composed of approximately 75% water, and insufficient fluid intake can lead to dehydration, negatively affecting cognitive function, short-term memory, concentration, alertness, and mood.
✅ Regular Exercise: Physical activity promotes the release of endorphins, which reduce stress and enhance feelings of well-being.
✅ Sufficient Sleep: Lack of sleep can increase stress levels and impact dietary choices, often leading to overeating, especially unhealthy foods.
✅ Stress Management: Techniques such as yoga, meditation, and deep breathing can improve emotional well-being and reduce cravings for unhealthy foods.
✅ Do More of What You Love: Are you dedicating enough time to activities and people that bring you joy? Studies show that happiness can improve overall health, while a positive mood can encourage healthier eating, increased physical activity, and better sleep.
Dietary Practices That Promote a Good Mood
Limiting Caffeine Intake
Caffeine stimulates the central nervous system and increases the production of cortisol and adrenaline, the hormones associated with stress. Excessive consumption can lead to nervousness, anxiety, and irritability, negatively affecting mood.
Additionally, continuous caffeine consumption can affect serotonin, the neurotransmitter that regulates happiness and calmness. By reducing caffeine intake, the body maintains more stable serotonin levels, improving emotional balance.
Protein Consumption
Protein is not only important for muscle growth and recovery but also plays a key role in mood, cognitive function, and psychological well-being. This is because amino acids, the building blocks of proteins, contribute to the production of key neurotransmitters that regulate mood and energy.
– One of the main effects of protein on mood is its role in serotonin production, the neurotransmitter that promotes feelings of happiness and relaxation.
– Protein contains tyrosine, an amino acid necessary for the production of dopamine and norepinephrine, two neurotransmitters linked to energy, motivation, and concentration.
– Replacing processed carbohydrates with protein helps maintain stable energy levels, avoiding the highs and crashes caused by excessive sugar consumption.
– Protein contains B-complex vitamins, which aid in energy production and stress management.
Nutrient Intake
Consuming healthy foods such as leafy greens, unsaturated fats, and fruits is linked to improved long-term mental health. This is due to the release of neurotransmitters like serotonin and dopamine, which promote feelings of happiness.
Stay Active
Physical activity plays a crucial role in improving mood by activating various well-being mechanisms. During exercise, the body releases endorphins, known as the “happiness hormones,” which reduce stress and enhance feelings of euphoria. At the same time, serotonin and dopamine levels increase—neurotransmitters associated with joy, motivation, and mental clarity.
Additionally, exercise helps reduce anxiety by regulating cortisol production, the stress hormone, thereby promoting relaxation. Lastly, physical activity helps regulate the circadian rhythm, contributing to better and deeper sleep, which further enhances mental balance and well-being.
Avoid Processed Foods
The foods we often crave, such as sweets and processed snacks, may seem tempting but actually negatively impact our mood. While they provide a temporary sense of pleasure, they quickly lead to a sudden drop in energy and mood levels.
This happens because processed carbohydrates and sugars cause sharp fluctuations in blood sugar levels, resulting in energy instability and drastic mood swings.
Real Greek Dairies offers natural protein products of high nutritional value that support both physical and mental health. Their natural ingredients promote positive mood, energy, and concentration, contributing to a healthy and balanced lifestyle.
Real Greek Dairies Products that Enhance Well-Being & Positive Mood:
🧡 Biofunctional Foods “Zoe means life”
A biofunctional powdered food made from natural ingredients that boost energy, mental well-being, and vitality. Rich in proteins, vitamin B12, riboflavin, calcium, phosphorus, and potassium.
💪 Goat & Sheep Whey Protein
A pure, high-biological-value protein that enhances mental clarity and endurance. Contains high levels of protein, riboflavin, and vitamin B12 and is a source of calcium and phosphorus. According to an official response from the National Organization for Medicines (EOF), it is classified as a food product rather than a dietary supplement due to its composition (concentrated whey protein).
🥛 Goat Milk Powder
An exceptional dairy product, ideal for those who want to naturally enrich their diet with minerals and vitamins that support mental well-being and a positive mood. Provides proteins, calcium, phosphorus, magnesium, and zinc, essential for bone health. High in vitamin A, thiamine, riboflavin, pantothenic acid, and potassium, and a source of vitamins B6 and B12.
🍫 Soft Protein Bars & Protein Snacks
Made with cocoa, honey, and carob, offering natural energy and a positive mood. No palm oil, only olive oil!
Nutrition as a Source of Happiness
The International Day of Happiness reminds us that well-being starts with proper nutrition. By choosing pure, natural products like those from Real Greek Dairies, we can enhance our physical and mental health, boost our energy levels, and bring more happiness into our daily lives!
Discover the power of natural nutrition & choose products that make you feel good! 😊
