Perfect Snacks for the Anxious, the Stressed and the Tired

Throughout my life, I've found food to be powerful emotional medicine. I blast through stress by crunching on nuts and reach for a slice of German chocolate cake to put a smile on my face. A fresh burst of citrus leaves me feeling energized, while a glass of warm milk is a surefire way to settle down for sleep.

It should come as no surprise that food can have a noticeable effect on our moods, but it's more than just an association between, say, dessert and happiness—it's chemical. What we eat can trigger the release of neurotransmitters and hormones that influence everything from agitation to anger. So next time you find yourself in an emotional rut, you might just need a trip to the cupboard or fridge. For instance...