Title: The Surprising Truth Behind “Happy Foods” – A Deep Dive into Nutritional Psychiatry In an era where fast food chains and sugary desserts are often associated with happiness and celebration, it’s time to rethink our understanding of what truly makes us happy. According to Felice Jacka from the Food and Mood Centre at Deakin University in Geelong, Australia, many people believe that indulging in these foods will bring them joy due to advertising campaigns by food companies. However, this is far from the truth. For over fifteen years, Jacka and her team have been studying nutritional psychiatry – the field that explores how certain foods affect our moods and mental health. Their research has revealed some surprising findings: while there are indeed “happy” foods out there, not all of them come in the form of sugary treats or fatty fast food meals. In fact, studies have shown that consuming ultra-processed foods packed with refined carbohydrates and sugar can lead to feelings of anxiety, irritability, anger, and lethargy just a few hours after consumption. Dr. Kara Margolis, a pediatric gastroenterologist at New York University who studies the connection between gut health and mood disorders, agrees with this assessment. She shares her personal experience: “For example, some weekend mornings, I go to a diner and have a waffle. By 10 o’clock, I feel terrible.” Over time, these types of foods can significantly impact our mental well-being as large epidemiological studies across various cultures indicate that diets high in ultra-processed items and refined carbohydrates are associated with an increased risk for depression by up to 30%. So what does this mean? It’s time to reevaluate the way we view “happy” foods. Instead of reaching for a slice of cake or a greasy pizza, perhaps it’s time to consider incorporating more nutrient-dense whole foods into our diets – ones that have been proven to uplift our mood and protect us from depression. By doing so, we may find true happiness not only in the short term but also in the long run. In conclusion, while it’s tempting to associate “happy” with indulgent treats, science tells a different story. Nutritional psychiatry reveals that certain foods can negatively impact our mental health and mood. By understanding this connection and making conscious choices about what we eat, we can work towards true happiness both inside and out.
Source: [Original Article](https://www.npr.org/2025/11/24/nx-s1-5615440/food-mood-mental-health)
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