Eating For Happiness…Seriously

If you've got even a hint of my culinary inclinations, you know that a good chunk of joy comes from what we pop into our mouths. But here's a zinger: what we eat doesn’t just tickle our taste buds; it plays a lead role in our happiness parade. That's right, folks – the gut is doing a tango with the brain!

Now, you might think that diving into a mountain of poutine, gobbling up three hefty slices of pepperoni pizza, capping it off with a chocolate chip cookie, and washing it all down with a Diet Pepsi (seriously, why is it always Diet Pepsi?) is your express ticket to bliss town. Well, I hate to burst your grease-soaked bubble, but that's not quite how it works.

Let’s not wade too deep into the science-y swamp (and yes, 'science-y' is a word – my author status grants me word-inventing powers), but it's important to know that poor gut health is like a party pooper for your mental state, potentially leading to uninvited guests like depression and anxiety. That aforementioned feast? Not exactly a helper in the happiness department.

Fear not, for I bring tidings of gut-pleasing delights! Swap out the grease-fest for some probiotic superstars like yogurt, sauerkraut, kimchi, and the underdog hero, miso. Oh, miso, you dark horse, potentially fending off cancer, hypertension, and obesity – who knew?

And let's not forget about some cheese champions – cheddar, gouda, and mozzarella. Semi-hard but fully beneficial for a happiness boost.

Last but not least, who can overlook the humble, everyday pickle? Picture this: a slice of pickle and cheese lounging on a healthy cracker. If that doesn’t spell out a happier you, I don’t know what will.

So, do your brain (and your taste buds) a solid – treat your gut like royalty. Your happiness meter will thank you for it! 🧀🥒🥣