How Your Diet Can Impact Your Mental Health

When it comes to food and health, we generally consider how our diet can impact our physical health. We are all well aware that eating a healthy, balanced diet filled with fruit and vegetables can help our bodies to develop, heal, and maintain themselves effectively. If we consume anything out of moderation or indulge in too much sugar, salt, or fats, our physical health can quickly take a turn for the worse and we can find ourselves suffering from all sorts of negative conditions, illnesses, and diseases – from obesity to diabetes and heart conditions. So, it’s not all too surprising that most of us try our best to follow recommended guidelines when it comes to the food we put into our bodies. But have you ever considered how your diet can impact your mental health? Read on to find out!

Diet and Mental Health

Various studies have been conducted into this subject area and many have found that eating well can lead to a greater sense of wellbeing. One study, for example, found that a Mediterranean diet (a diet high in vegetables, fruits, legumes, nuts, beans, cereals, and grains) led to a notable reduction in depression amongst participants. Some professionals are arguing that while a change in diet can’t necessarily rid patients of mental illness, it can improve their lifestyle and improve upon their wellbeing. A change in diet should definitely be considered alongside traditional therapy sessions.

Foods Deemed Good for Mental Wellbeing

If this sounds like something you’d be willing to try out, or if you’re catering to someone who is suffering from mental problems, you could try incorporating a few key foods into meal plans or cutting particular foods out. Here are some changes to consider:

• Manage your caffeine intake. Caffeine has profound effects on our body and can set our hearts racing, worsening symptoms of anxiety. So, opt for decaf coffee and caffeine free teas instead.

• Cut out sugar. It is associated with depression and anxiety and, at the end of the day, the majority of us don’t need it. There are plenty of natural sugars and alternatives out there if you find yourself struggling to wean yourself off it.

• CBD oil has been found to alleviate symptoms of stress and anxiety. So why not try cbd gummies? These are simple to incorporate into your diet – simply have as many as recommended as treats throughout the day.

Stay Hydrated

Everyone should stay hydrated. But individuals suffering from mental health concerns should particularly bear this in mind. If you don’t get enough fluids, you may find yourself experiencing difficulty in thinking things through clearly or concentrating. So, aim for eight glasses of water every single day.

While you might not have connected diet and mental health before, it’s time to start thinking about how the foods that you eat can alter your mood and impact your life. Make positive changes to start seeing positive effects as soon as possible. If you fall off the bandwagon and make a mistake along the way, don’t be hard on yourself. Instead, pick yourself up and continue your healthy eating straight away.