There is a connection between the food we eat and one's mental health. In fact, paying more attention to what we eat can make a big difference towards managing one's wellbeing. We all recognize the effects of stress on our eating habits. When under stress we may eat more convenience and comfort foods, such as sweets and unhealthy processed snacks. We do this to derive joy from those foods and to save time in order to get more work done.
"What many people don't realize is that over time a nutrient deficient diet results in a worsening of mental health symptoms."
Existing mental health problems like anxiety or depression typically fuel the development of poor eating habits. There may be a tendency towards overindulgence of processed foods or to deny oneself enough calories as a method of feeling in control. What many people don't realize is that over time a nutrient deficient diet results in a worsening of mental health symptoms.
"Without nutrients one's body runs out of reserves and can't effectively complete metabolic tasks such as activating enzymes, balancing hormones, defending from illness, or building/repairing tissues."
Nutritious food is very important for the maintenance of health. The brain, nervous system, and immune system all need essential polyunsaturated fats for proper functioning. These omega fats are essential because the body can't produce them on its own. The muscles and organs need enough calories and protein for maintenance. Nearly half of the amino acids that we consume from protein are essential from the diet. Consuming sufficient nutrient dense foods, a.k.a. unprocessed food, ensures that the body has enough building blocks and other chemical/ molecular tools to maintain optimal cellular functioning. Good sources of nutrient dense foods include vegetables, fruits, grains, seeds, meat, and dairy. Our bodies need sufficient amounts of water, protein, fat, fiber, carbohydrates, vitamins, minerals and phytonutrients from plants every day. Without regular nutrients one's body runs out of reserves and can't effectively complete metabolic tasks such as activating enzymes, balancing hormones, defending from illness, or building/repairing tissues. Dysregulated hormones and neurotransmitters are often the culprits behind mental illnesses. So don't just eat healthy for your physical health... do it for your mental health too!
For more assistance with managing your anxiety or depression with nutrition interventions...
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