Eating a balanced diet is extremely important in improving our physical health and general wellbeing.
We’ve all heard that healthy eating is important in regulating blood sugar, supporting our muscle function, boosting immunity, and maintaining a healthy weight.
But did you know the food you eat also impacts your mental health? According to research, the foods we eat influence our cognitive function and mental state, including memory, mood, intelligence, reasoning, and problem-solving.
On the other hand, not getting those important nutrients in our diet can contribute to more stress, anxiety, depression, and mental fatigue.
According to Harvard Medical School, our brain is always active. It requires "fuel" to function and that “fuel” comes from the food we eat.
A well-balanced diet that consists of vitamins, minerals, plant-based antioxidants, amino acids, Omega-3, and macrobiotics is a great recipe for overall health.
Conversely, a poor-quality diet of refined sugars, highly processed meats, and high-fat dairy products is linked to unfavorable mental health issues such as increased depression, anxiety, and stress.
Foods rich in Vitamin B, folic acid, folate, omega-3 fatty acids, zinc, and magnesium are ideal for improving mental health.
Here is a list of some foods that you can eat to boost your mental health:
Leafy greens
Broccoli
Cauliflower
Cabbage
Kale
Brussels sprouts
Oysters
Mussels
Avocados
Bananas
Pumpkin
Blueberries
Apples
Grapefruit
Kiwi fruit
Salmon
The bottom line is that what you eat can significantly influence your physical and psychological well-being.
Having said this, if you feel you could use mental health support, please reach out to someone.
With this nutritional information in mind, guard your diet and make sure that whatever you eat has all the nutritional benefits your brain needs to operate at its best.
Here’s to a happy and healthy brain!
If you’re interested in learning more about how this relates to you? Click here for a free 60-minute session!