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It seems that roast beef is often on Masonic menus (not that I’m complaining! – Editor). But some writers suggest that food can actually affect the mood of the diners.

The chemistry of food is fascinating, and menu choices can affect the metabolism of a group of diners differently.

• High protein foods, such as chicken, seafood and roast beef keep diners more alert than carbohydrates such as pasta and bread, which tend to relax people.

• Fatty foods, which can sit in the stomach longer, and take longer to digest, can weigh people down.

Foods high in the amino acid tryptophan, such as turkey and milk products, can actually make people sleepy.

• The simple sugars in a brownie will provide a quick high, but some diners will come down hard, responding with an extreme dip in blood sugar.

But it’s all relative: you can substitute the word ‘alert’ with ‘wired’, or ‘relaxed’ with ‘zonked out’. So what’s best when deciding on a menu at a Masonic function? A varied menu is best, with a good balance of foods. A good Masonic meal with good Masonic friends – what could be more revivifying?

See you at the next Masonic repast!

From Newsletter 16
10 March 2006