Not all fats are created equal, particularly when it comes to their effect on your mood.

Generally speaking, saturated fats are the ones you want to keep a handle on, as they can disrupt the balance of bacteria in the gut as well as contributing to higher levels of inflammation and oxidative stress.

“Higher oxidative stress affects brain function and can impair the production of a molecule known as Brain-Derived Neurotrophic Factor (BDNF) – lower levels of which are related to low mood and anxiety,” says Pearse.

Processed meats, chocolate, biscuits, butter, pastry and fatty cuts of meat are all high in saturated fats. So, if those sorts of foods make up a high proportion of your meals, they could be impacting your mood.

However, there are some fats that can have a positive effect, with fatty acids like Omega-3 thought to have a beneficial impact on mood as part of a balanced diet.

“Low levels of Omega-3 in the diet are related to poor mood,” continues Brittany. “Omega-3 is important for brain function and an important component of brain cells.

“It also has anti-inflammatory functions in the gut which is significant, as the interaction with microbes in the gut may influence wider anti-inflammatory pathways in the body, including the brain.”

4 ways your diet can influence your mood, and how to make it work for you