The Mood Trick That Helps You Lose Weight

If you’re trying to shed pounds, you better work on your mood first. Adjust your mood the right way and it’s easier to lose weight. But the wrong mood can lead to eating the wrong food.

Research at Cornell shows that if you’re in a good mood, it’s easier to eat healthier and lose weight than if your mood is sour. The trick: Focus your thoughts on your bright and hoped-for future rather than obsessing over your current shortcomings. That future focus improves your food choices.

According to the researchers: “We found that thinking about the future led to greater consideration of abstract (nutrition/health-oriented) benefits and better food choices, while thinking about the present led to greater consideration of concrete (taste/enjoyment-oriented) benefits and more indulgent food choices.”

So the next time a cupcake or cookie beckons, turn a deaf taste bud to its siren song. Instead, listen to the sweet music of the slimmer body and sharper mind you can nourish with a healthier choice.