We all know that eating healthy is great for our physical health, lowering our chances of getting diabetes, cancer, obesity, and heart disease. But did you know it’s also awesome for our mental health? Eating well can help reduce the risk of depression and anxiety.
Mental health issues are on the rise and cost a whopping $2.5 trillion globally each year. Luckily, changing our diet can help with these problems. Australia’s clinical guidelines even suggest looking at diet when treating depression.
Recently, we’ve learned a lot about how certain foods affect our mental well-being. Adding these nutrients to our diet can boost our mood and save money on mental health care worldwide.
1. Complex Carbs
Eating complex carbs, found in fruits, veggies, and whole grains, fuels our brain cells and helps stabilize our mood. These carbs release glucose slowly, unlike simple carbs in sugary snacks and drinks, which cause sugar highs and lows and negatively impact our mental well-being. Cutting back on sugary snacks and eating more complex carbs can make us happier and healthier.
2. Antioxidants
Our bodies naturally produce energy through oxidation, but this can also cause oxidative stress, especially in the brain. This stress reduces happiness chemicals like dopamine and serotonin. Antioxidants in colorful fruits and veggies fight this stress, repair damage, and boost mood-enhancing chemicals in our brain.
3. Omega-3 Fatty Acids
Omega-3s, found in oily fish, nuts, seeds, leafy veggies, eggs, and grass-fed meats, are crucial for brain health and communication between mood-boosting chemicals. They improve brain function, slow dementia, and help with depression. Since our bodies can’t make omega-3s, we need to get them from our diet.
4. B Vitamins
B vitamins, found in green veggies, beans, bananas, and beetroot, help produce serotonin and dopamine, which are key for happiness. High levels of vitamins B6, B12, and folate protect against depression, while low levels can worsen symptoms. Eating more B vitamins boosts happiness and well-being.
5. Prebiotics and Probiotics
The good and bad bacteria in our gut affect our mood, behaviour, and brain health. Prebiotics and probiotics, found in yogurt, cheese, and fermented foods like kombucha, sauerkraut, and kimchi, work like antidepressants by reducing inflammation and boosting happy emotions. Including these in our diet improves both physical and mental health, reducing the risk of depression and anxiety. A great way to take fruits and vegetables is through cold press juicers or blended juices/smoothies, like the range from MOD Appliances.“
Incorporating these foods into our daily meals not only benefits our body but also our mind, helping us lead happier, healthier lives.
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