Exercise and diet can both influence mood. In general exercise and a good diet are considered beneficial to mood. However, as with all physiological parameters, control of mood is highly complex and diet and exercise can de double edged swords when dealing with mental health. For example, exercise is able to cause significant generation of reactive oxygen species as a result of increased ATP production. These reactive oxygen species can then damage the brain tissue through generation of oxidative stress. However, exercise can also increase brain levels of brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) that protects the brain. Too much exercise can therefore be damaging and exercise should be such that it does not cause excessive stress. Likewise, the oxidation of food can also generate reactive oxygen species, but high quality diets, containing antioxidant phytochemicals, can increase levels of BDNF and this confer protection. Diet should therefore also be moderated and balanced to limit oxidative stress.
Eat Well, Stay Healthy, Protect Yourself
RdB
