How much effect does a person's diet have on their moods and their ability to cope with stress? It's been proven that certain foods like chocolate can cause a temporary mild "lift" to a person's mood...Is it possible that a continuing struggle with depression or moodiness could possibly be caused or at least worsened by poor diet and fitness? Could these problems also not be controlled...or at least helped by maintaining a proper balance of nutrition?

Can anyone suggest certain foods or herbs (to be taken in a tea) which may be helpful during times of great stress or sadness?

The relationship between food and emotions is a very complex issue that many people have to face everyday. Most overweight or obese people don't become that way simply by saying, "I really like that food.. I am gonna eat it until I am 200 pounds overweight".

Often it is emotional eating, attempts to suppress or deny feelings or inadequacy, inferiority, fear, depression.. almost any negative emotion out there can contribute to obesity. Losing weight isn't a matter of counting calories, it is addressing the REASONS we all gained weight in the first place, finding a way to like ourself regardless of our present appearance and situation, and making the decision to make a permanent change in our eating habits and, subsequently, the reasons we eat.

A person who eats mostly fat foods and carbohydrates often feels weighed down and sluggish... and that can contribute to the feeling of worthlessness and lack of energy.

Choosing the right foods in preparation for various activities can make or break the success of that activity. Heavy meals should be avoided before vigorous exercise as blood is diverted from muscles and to digestion.

I can't suggest specific foods which will prevent depression, but staying away from heavy foods that make you feel tired will help. Choose light foods (fruits, raw veggies, salads, etc) and smaller more frequent meals that create more energy, not weighing you down.

Sherasi provided a very good answer for you. As to the second part of your question, if you want to take a herbal tea, I suggest something with vervein and fennel. It will calm you down and help you find a balance in life without slowing you down (camomile is often rcommended but it's a bit of a downer).