18 Jul How Does Your Nutrition Affect Your Psychological Wellness?

Diet and nutrition are widely associated with your physical health and fitness, but did you know they’re equally important for your psychological wellness? Several pieces of research have shown the role of dietary patterns on cognitive functioning, and how they help improve mental well-being.

Let’s take a closer look at how this works.

The Food-Mood Connection

Ever wondered why a bite of your favorite food instantly uplifts your mood after a really bad day? Research has also pointed out the effect food has on the brain’s neurotransmitters, which ultimately influence our mood. This is known as the food-mood connection, and is particularly strong in case of certain food items that help boost our emotional health.

However, while foods like dark chocolate or fish containing omega-3 fatty acids have considerable benefits on your emotional health, they should still be consumed in moderation. Our food choices affect our mood tremendously, and the healthier we eat, the happier we’ll be.

Studies have shown that consuming greater amounts of fruits and vegetables can help induce feelings of positivity and optimism, setting the pace for an improved mood for the upcoming days as well.  Similarly, individuals who maintain a healthy water intake regularly are likely to be in a better mood than those who don’t drink water as frequently and as much. In one study, it was observed that women who had a higher water intake had the least incidence of depression and also scored the lowest on mood disturbance tests as opposed to those who drank comparatively less water each day.

Research has also shown that the bacteria present in our gut can influence our moods and behaviors. These microorganisms secrete certain chemicals that contribute to mood regulation and positive brain development. By incorporating foods such as berries, vegetables, kefir, and miso soup in your diet, you can maximize the effects of the gut bacteria.

Mental Health & Nutrition

A healthy amount of nutritional intake also affects your psychological well-being. Foods rich in protein and fibers help regulate your blood sugar as well as your energy levels, allowing for improved concentration and clear thinking. In addition to this, certain foods also impact your mental health and alleviate symptoms of depression and anxiety.

Caffeinated beverages such as tea and coffee induce an antidepressant effect. According to one study, women who drank two or more cups of coffee each day had a reduced risk of experiencing depression than those who drank coffee sparsely. Seafood, too, has been found to be effective against depression, anxiety, and mood disorders, reducing the effects of cytokines. Again, a balanced intake of these foods & beverages is crucial as an increased consumption can lead to health complications.

Nutritional Guidance in Los Angeles

At MetaBody MetaMind, Dr. Roya Yazdani offers a number of holistic health services for your physical and psychological well-being. These include acupuncture & acupressure, cupping therapy, and nutrition counseling in Los Angeles as per Chinese herbal medicine. With our herbal remedies, you’ll notice a vast improvement in your overall wellness!

Call us at (310) 481-0045 to make an appointment.