We often hear experts talking about how food affects our body and our physical health. But, did you know that we can also use foods to improve our mental health and well-being?
That’s right; you can use foods to improve mental health. By giving your body something healthy to eat, just as the brain can impact our digestion, the gut also impacts the brain.
5 foods to improve mental health and wellbeing
Fatty Fish
With minimum 60% fat, our brain’s predominantly made up of fat and our bodies aren’t capable of creating those essential fatty acids. This is why a diet rich in omega-3s can help boost our brains. Fatty fish are a great source of omega-3 fatty acids. Many fish like salmon, herring, seaweed and even sardines are known to reduce symptoms of depression, ADHD, and other mental disorders.
Whole Grains
Brains cannot work without its primary source of energy, glucose. This is where you’ll need a lot of carbohydrates. When you consume whole grains, the complex carbs in the grains release glucose at a slow but consistent rate keeping you full longer and also provides your brain the proper fuel.
Lean Protein
Food is broken down into substances that help neurotransmitters and other chemicals to provide effective communication with the different parts of the nervous system. Lean protein can help you produce neurotransmitter serotonin which can reduce depression and help you improve your mental health.
Leafy Greens
Leafy greens are rich in Folic Acid and other vitamin B’s. These leafy greens are also linked with reducing higher rates of depression, fatigue and insomnia. Incorporating leafy greens in your diet every day can help you boost your mental health.
Yoghurt
Yoghurt can help your body’s digestive system run more smoothly. The active cultures in yoghurt can assist in lowering stress, depression and anxiety. You can eat yoghurt to give your mental health and wellbeing a better boost.
Closing Thoughts
Now that you know about foods to improve mental health make sure to add these food items in your daily diet. Food can have a drastic impact on our lives both physically and mentally. When we eat right, we can live a happy life. Eat the right food to ensure that you’re improving your mental health and wellbeing.
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