Ever feel completely drained, and not have the energy to do the smallest task? Studies indicate a direct relationship between fitness and mood, and many experts feel that a healthy lifestyle is an effective way to fight the blues.

Becoming physically fit combats depression by elevating your mood, helping you sleep, and building self-esteem. Depression usually includes tension and sleeplessness. Exercise relieves any tension that your body might have, and it also contributes to a good nights sleep. Being constantly tired and not getting any sleep increases the risk of falling into depression, whereas after a good nights rest coping with life’s daily pressures and problems becomes easier. It is also known by experts that any form of exercise releases endorphins into the body, which improve mood during waking hours as well. (mamashealth.com)

“I think that it is very true that [exercising and fitness] have a connection,” stated Andy Graham, athletics coach at Hayes. “Exercise is just kind of a brain rest.”

However, exercise is not the cure-all for lack of motivation and grouchiness. According to Lifetime Fitness Magazine, the past 30 years have seen a steady nutritional erosion of the standard American diet. But what exactly does that mean?

“As we’ve become more dependent on convenience and fast foods, which are loaded with sugars, refined carbs and empty calories, we’ve neglected the well-being of…our bodies…,” stated Lifetime Fitness reporter Jack Challem in his article “The Food-Mood Connection”.

Challem also states that our moods, like our bodies, do much better with fresh, whole foods that provide protein and vitamins. What we eat affects everything from our production of neurotransmitters and hormones to our energy levels, all of which determine how well we handle the stresses and demands of life.

Here are some tips for maintaining a healthy lifestyle and a good mood:

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To start your day off on a positive note, eat a protein-rich breakfast, such as eggs with whole-grain toast or fresh fruit. Skipping breakfast, which seems to be common among high school students, destroys havoc on your blood sugar and leaves the body and brain more sensitive to stress.

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Eat regular meals and make sure each meal includes high-quality protein.

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Avoid fast foods, such as burgers, fries, and fried chicken. Also, stay away from packaged microwave meals. All of these foods are high in sugar and unhealthy trans fats.

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Go easy on the caffeine and sweetened coffee drinks (some may contain up to 730 calories!)

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Take a supplement rich in vitamins, minerals, amino acids and healthy fats. A good place to start is with a high-potency multivitamin or B-complex vitamin.

Living by these nutrition tips will help to ensure a happier, healthier lifestyle. (Health tips courtesy of Lifetime Fitness Magazine)