Nutrition & Mental Health

DID YOU KNOW? N E W S L E T T E R A HEALTHY DIET WILL POSITIVELY AFFECT YOUR MENTAL HEALTH FOODS TO EAT FOR BETTER MENTAL HEALTH Fruits Vegetables Fresh Seafood Nuts Seeds Legumes Whole Grains To boost your mental health, focus on eating plenty of fruits and vegetables along with foods rich in omega-3 fatty acids, such as salmon. Dark green leafy vegetables in particular are brain protective. Nuts, seeds and legumes, such as beans and lentils, are also excellent brain foods. We already know that eating healthy is the key to having good physical health, but more and more research is emerging that proves that what we eat has a major impact on our brain functions and overall mental health. Studies that have compared "traditional" diets to "Western" diets show that the risk of depression is 25% - 35% higher in those who eat a Western diet, which is typically comprised of processed and refined foods and sugars. FOODS TO AVOID FOR BETTER MENTAL HEALTH Processed meat Fried food Refined foods Candy High-fat dairy Alcohol Caffeine Sugar and processed foods can lead to inflammation throughout the body and brain, which may contribute to mood disorders, including anxiety and depression. When we’re feeling stressed or depressed, it’s often processed foods we reach for in search of a quick pick-me-up.