When people lose weight, they get happier, at least for a little while. The numbers on the scale go down, your clothes fit better and your health may improve as the extra fat disappears. But does that good mood last for more than a few weeks? And does the type of diet you follow make a difference?

Researchers in Australia recently completed a study designed to measure mood changes in dieters over one year. They divided 106 participants into two random groups and gave each group a reduced-calorie diet. One half were put on low-carbohydrate diets and the other half were put on low-fat diets.

The scientists collected data on the amount of weight lost, mood, cognitive function and memory. After one year, there wasn't much difference between the low-carb and low-fat dieters as far as weight loss (both groups lost about the same), cognitive function and memory. But there was a difference in mood - the low-fat dieters were happier than the low-carb dieters.

The scientists collected data on the amount of weight lost, mood, cognitive function and memory. After one year, there wasn't much difference between the low carb and low fat dieters as far as weight loss (both groups lost about the same), cognitive function and memory. But there was a difference in mood - the low fat dieters were happier than the low carb dieters.

So can this be true? Can cutting back on fats rather than carbohydrates make you happier? Maybe. This is just the first study to look at the long term effect of dietary composition on mood after weight loss, but it is plausible. Your brain likes glucose as fuel (yes, I know your body can make glucose from fat, but studies show eating carbs improves short term cognitive function) and eating carbohydrates stimulates serotonin, a brain chemical that is essential for good mood.

I think this study is interesting, although personally I don't feel any need to get involved in a low-carb vs. low-fat diet war. I believe there are good (and bad) components of each ideology. Low-carb diets get rid of the extra sugar, but it also eliminates a lot of healthy foods like many fruits, some vegetables and whole grains. Low-fat diets cut out saturated fats, but you can also miss out on the essential omega-3 and omega-6 fats that your body can't make on it's own.

Tell me about your experiences with weight loss diets and mood. Have you lost weight on a low-fat or low-carb diet? Do you prefer one over the other?

Daily Nutrition Tip

Thinking about nutrient density of the foods you eat will help you make healthier choices for you meals and snacks. When you eat nutrient dense foods, you automatically eat fewer calories but you get many more nutrients. Learn about nutrient density and how to choose nutrient dense foods.

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Daily Nutrition Tip

_{Photo © Rick Hawkins}

A couple of weeks ago I was introduced to a new website called Dentureliving.com, which offers help and support for denture wearers (including beauty tips and other ways to boost your confidence).

I didn't realize how many millions of Americans wear dentures. And I learned that a large number of denture wearers are embarrassed and even afraid to eat out in restaurants because they're afraid they'll have trouble eating or that their dentures might slip.

Actually, wearing dentures is much better than having serious dental problems, but they can take a little getting used to. If you're getting (or even thinking about getting) dentures, I've got some tips for learning to eat with dentures.

Today's Nutrition Tip

The annual ending of Daylight Saving Time brings welcome sunlight into the early morning hours, however it can take a few days to get used to the disruption of your sleeping patterns. There are a few things you can with do with your diet do to ease the transition:

Go easy on the caffeine. A cup of coffee or two in the morning is fine, but consuming too much caffeine later in the day may make it difficult for you to sleep.

Don't skip breakfast. Even if you're groggy in the AM, you need to get some fuel in your body before going to work and school.

Avoid heavy foods or spicy foods. Or any foods you know that may cause heartburn, making it difficult for you to sleep.

Don't drink too much alcohol. Over-consumption of your favorite adult beverages may cause a very restless uncomfortable night.

Eat cherries. Not only are they rich in vitamins, cherries contain melatonin, a substance also found in the human body that helps regulate sleep. Eating fresh or dried cherries before you go to bed at night may help you sleep better.

Today's Nutrition Tip

_{Photo © Tom Denham}