The Role of Nutrition in Mental Health
We may not believe it but nutrition plays a significant role in our mental health. The foods we eat have a lasting effect on our mood, energy levels, and of course, our overall well being. More research has been done over the years that indicates our gut health greatly impacts our mental health. Certain foods can help with certain struggles like anxiety and depression. Getting tested for allergies can help to pinpoint what foods could impact you negatively and can provide some resources to help you establish good eating habits that will benefit not only your physical health but your mental health as well. Here are some examples of how food impacts our mental health.
First and foremost is brain function. Foods that have fatty acids are crucial for brain health and have been linked to lower the risk of depression. Certain vitamins and minerals such as B vitamins, magnesium and zinc help to support brain function as well as influence your mood. Chemicals in the brain known as neurotransmitters, transmit signals between nerve cells in the brain and when those neurotransmitters don’t get the right nutrition they don’t function well. It’s also essential for maintaining cognitive function and preventing cognitive decline. Antioxidant-rich foods like fruits, vegetables, nuts, and seeds protect the brain from any kind of damage. Additionally, consuming adequate amounts of healthy fats, such as those found in avocados and olive oil, supports brain health and cognitive function.
Next, is mood regulation and energy levels. The gut and the brain are interconnected as whatever we eat impacts our brain and other areas of our body. All the microbiome in the gut helps with transmitting messages throughout the body. Any foods rich in probiotics like yogurt, kefir, and other fermented foods are rich in the nutrients needed for gut health. The gut also plays a role in how our body processes sugar. Eating foods that are complex carbs such as whole grains, fruits and vegetables can help to regulate our blood sugar levels, which impacts our energy levels. Eating foods that are processed and high in refined (fake) sugar lead to mood swings and fatigue. The production of neurotransmitters like serotonin, dopamine, and norepinephrine is influenced by the availability of certain nutrients and is impacted by processed foods. For example, tryptophan, an amino acid found in turkey, chicken, and bananas, is a precursor to serotonin, a neurotransmitter associated with happiness and well-being.
Stress management, which can impact anxiety and depression, is also impacted by proper nutrition. When we are not eating well we can cause inflammation, which plays a role in how our bodies respond to anxiety and depression. Anti-inflammatory foods such as leafy green vegetables, berries, fatty fish, nuts, and seeds can help reduce inflammation in the body and brain, potentially improving anxiety and depression. We also need to make sure we are getting enough water in our systems as that also impacts how our bodies respond to stress. And we just need water to function throughout the day. Chances are if you are feeling tired you need more water and not a coffee.
As we can see, nutrition plays a vital role in mental health, influencing everything from brain function and development to mood regulation and stress management. By adopting a balanced diet rich in essential nutrients and not processed foods, you can support your mental well-being and overall health. Remember, what you eat not only fuels your body but also nurtures your mind and you can’t have one without the other.
*I am not a doctor or nutritionist. All information is based on what I have seen in clients as well as information I have gleaned from other professionals. Please talk with your medical provider for more information and support in maintaining a healthy diet.*