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Nutrition and Mental Health

Nutrition and Mental Health

Nutrition and mental health are intertwined in a variety of ways. The relationship between nutrition and mental health is a topic that has been studied extensively. The research also suggested that poor diet can have an impact on one’s mood and digestion.  The food we eat can affect our mood and abilities to think clearly. Learning how to manage both aspects is key for feeling better. Eating well also helps to combat the sluggishness from a lack of sleep or stress.

The integration of nutritious foods into our daily lives is key to improving our mental health.

Mental illnesses such as depression and anxiety are often thought of as something that can be cured with medication, but what most people don’t realize is the importance nutrition plays in one’s moods. Studies have shown a correlation between eating healthy food and feeling better mentally. More so, it means incorporating nutrient-rich ingredients into your diet will make you feel much more relaxed day-to-day life!

In this blog, we will explore the role of nutrition in mental health and the types of food that improve mood and reduce anxiety

The Role of Nutrition in Mental Health

The role of nutrition in mental health is important and known by people. The brain is like a car that needs to be fuel with the right food to function right. As such, certain nutrients are essential for brain function. Nonetheless, many people who suffer from depression or anxiety do so because they don’t eat right as well as exercising enough, there’s evidence that suggests some dietary changes can help manage symptoms too. Additionally, consider how our bodies’ nutritional needs change as our mental states shift from feeling neutral or good to being stressed and anxious. Hence, it seems logical that what they eat might also alter these feelings in some way!

The research shows that people were found to have higher levels of depression if they ate fewer fruits/vegetables, eating unhealthy food with high sugar content, and consumed alcohol excessively, and lived alone for long periods time without socializing very often or having many friends.

Food that improves mental health

Knowing the types of food that improves mental health is important because eating certain types of food can help you to feel better. Mental health issues are a serious problem in today’s society, and as such it’s not always easy to tell which foods are the best for your mental health, and what is just a myth. There are many foods that can help improve your mental health without medication. In fact, several studies have shown that eating certain types of food high in Omega- 3 fatty acids, fruits & veggies, nuts, proteins, legumes, and complex carbohydrate can actually reduce anxiety, increase energy, and increase overall happiness levels.

Emem Iniobong is a Brandon MB, Canadian Certified Counsellor that helps children, teens, young adults, parents, and families in dealing with anxiety, depression, grief, parenting support to live a more fulfilled and bliss-ful life.