Most people are mindful of their diet to maintain a healthy weight. However, many people are unaware of the impact of food on your mental health. Your food goes straight to your gut to be processed, and your gut is responsible for producing hormones that regulate your mood. Therefore, if you have a healthy diet, your gut will be healthy, which will lead to optimal mood regulation.
However, eating unhealthy foods frequently will give you an upset gut, which will damage your mental health. Hence, you should pay special attention to your diet for ensuring ideal mental health, which is why we have enlisted some of the finest foods for mental wellness.
1. Fish
Fish is a great source of protein, and it is also an excellent source of fat. We have been taught to believe that fat is bad for us, but good fats, such as Omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids. These fats not only help to reduce the levels of bad cholesterol but they also promote good gut health, and they are an excellent food for the brain well. For instance, some Omega-3 fatty acids boost your memory and greatly reduce your levels of stress.
2. Berries
Berries are nature's candies. They have excellent taste, and they are a brilliant source of antioxidants as well. Antioxidants are the compounds that keep us healthy by preventing oxidative damage and free-radical induced inflammation. They also contain
Polyphenolics increase memory and reduce depressive episodes.
3. Yogurt
This list would be incomplete without the mention of yogurt. Yogurt is a fermented product that is super beneficial for good gut health. It is loaded with probiotics and prebiotics that aid in healthy digestion. Furthermore, the gut is the site of serotonin production.
Serotonin is also known as the happy hormone that uplifts our mood and protects us from feeling anxious or depressed. Therefore, a healthy gut would ensure healthy serotonin levels as well that can be achieved with the regular consumption of yogurt.
4. Leafy Green Vegetables
We’ve all been told since childhood that green vegetables are extremely important for our health. While these vegetables are excellent for improving our physical health, they have several mental health benefits as well. Having leafy green vegetables regularly can delay the onset of cognitive disorders.
5. Beans
Beans are a fiber-rich food that is also loaded with antioxidants. Beans help to regulate optimal blood sugar levels, which leads to healthy energy burning. This process is really helpful for promoting good mental health. They are also a rich source of thiamine, which is important for producing the neurotransmitter acetylcholine that promotes good memory.
Final Word
You need to pay special attention to your diet if you want to enjoy good mental health. If you consume healthy and nutrient-dense foods, then you will have healthy mental well-being as well. However, you should also avoid consuming unhealthy foods such as refined flour, processed items and high sugar snacks as they are all detrimental to your mental health.
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