Another powerful mood food could become a secret weapon in the fight against crime. In Bournemouth in the south of
England, where late-night violence can be a problem, some nightclub owners have come up with a solution. They give their clients free chocolate at the end of the night. The results have been dramatic, with a 60% reduction in violent incidents.
Why does chocolate make people less aggressive? First, it causes the brain to release feel-good chemicals called endorphins. It also contains a lot of sugar, which gives you energy, and can help stop late-night tiredness turning into aggression. These two things, together with a delicious taste, make chocolate a powerful mood changer.
Mood food – what the experts say
• Blueberries and cocoa can raise concentration levels for up to five hours.
• Food that is high in protein helps your brain to work more efficiently.
• For relaxation and to sleep better, eat carbohydrates.
• Dark green vegetables (e.g. cabbage and spinach) and oily fish (e.g. salmon) eaten regularly can help to fight depression.
Adapted from a British newspaper