The human mind is an extraordinary biological mechanism capable of solving the majority of issues that it encounters. It keeps us engaged, focused, and living without any further effort on our part. However, we frequently cut corners when it comes to supplying it with the essential nutrients it requires for healthy upkeep. Instead, we stuff ourselves with junk meals like deep-fried chips, greasy savouries, fizzy beverages, and so on.
A well-balanced diet provides great fuel not just for the body but also for the brain. It promotes mental wellness by lowering the risk of psychiatric disorders. Consider your brain to be a high-performance car that performs best when it is provided with the proper fuel and maintenance it needs to keep us ticking.
Loaded with fibre
We’ve all heard that fibre is an essential component of any diet. We usually end up skimping on it since it’s probably not that entertaining. Fibre, on the other hand, is required for the effective absorption of glucose in our system. It keeps you fuller for longer, which helps you avoid sugar crashes and binge snacking. Consider leafy greens, fruits, nuts, and grains to be your partners in this endeavour.
Magnesium-the mood booster
A shortage of magnesium in your diet can induce mood swings and symptoms comparable to sadness and anxiety. Magnesium is essential for circulatory stability as well as neuron and muscle function. This mineral may be found naturally in foods such as bananas, leafy vegetables such as spinach, pumpkins, dark chocolate, and some dry fruits such as cashews and almonds.
Vitamin D- the mood stabilizer
Vitamin D aids in the synthesis of serotonin, a hormone that controls and stabilises our mood, happiness, and overall well-being. However, our population is frequently lacking in it. Vitamin D is found in egg yolks, mushrooms, and fatty fish such as salmon and sardines. If your levels are critically low, you should talk with your doctor and consider taking a supplement.
Switch to un-processed foods
Avoid processed foods as much as possible because they are low in nutritional content. Certain studies have also connected artificial chemicals like preservatives and food colouring to mood and hyperactivity dysregulation. Consider including more fruits, veggies, and whole grains into your diet.
Gut friendly fermented foods
Although different regions of the world have been privy to this closely guarded secret, fermented foods are nutrient-dense and high in probiotics. What exactly are probiotics? They are beneficial bacteria that aid in the health of your digestive tract. Fermented foods are very inexpensive! Kimchi, sauerkraut, and kombucha have recently gained popularity due to their health advantages.
Healthy Indian meals include dishes made with fermented bamboo shoots, appams, lassi, and kanji. Consume in moderation, though, because the fermentation process raises the salt level of components.
Please keep in mind that eating is not a fast fix for a better mind. It takes time to realise the benefits of a diet adjustment. So patience is essential. It is critical to construct a healthy scaffolding for your mind to work correctly. A healthy body, properly supported by appropriate nutrition, is a potent intervention for improved mental health.
