Therapeutic Benefits of Nutrition for Mental Wellness

Our mental health is affected by various factors. Stress, anxiety, bottles up emotions and everyday hassles put a toll on our mind and body. Some of us might cope effectively with our problems while others can have a hard time accepting and facing their fears. Reports suggest around 264 million people are suffering from depression globally. If not checked and controlled, depression can often lead to suicide. While we acknowledge that a healthy and fit body is necessary for a human to function and carry out everyday activities, we also need to understand the importance of a healthy mind.

We know about various mental health disorders such as bipolar disorder, depression, anxiety, schizophrenia, and several eating disorders. Mental health disorders are complex and highly personal. The rate of these disorders has drastically grown in the last few years. People are becoming more aware of their needs and acknowledging their discomfort. Thus, having a well-functioning mind is requisite to prevent any risk of mental health disorders.

The brain is always processing and functioning. It never stops working, not even when you are asleep. So, it requires some kind of fuel to help it from breaking down and enhance its performance. This fuel comes in the form of food. A nutritious diet benefits you in more ways than you can think of. A good nourishing meal rich in vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants will improve the working of your brain. There is a very complex relationship between obesity and mental health. People who are obese are 55% more likely of developing depression over time. On the other hand, people suffering from depression are 58% more likely to become obese.

By choosing food items that provide you energy and nutrition, you can nourish your mind and body. A balanced diet will improve energy, concentration and it will ensure your overall well-being.
These are a few suggestions to incorporate into your diet to achieve mental wellness:

• Antioxidants: These protect the body from free radicals that pose any threat to the body. It strengthens the immune system and reduces your chances of developing a disease. It ensures the growth and repair of the body. Antioxidants are claimed to reduce oxidative stress and can protect the brain from potential damage. Consumption of antioxidants can also reduce anxiety and depression. Tomatoes, berries, bell pepper, kale, spinach, oranges, yogurt, beans, legumes, and whole grains are all antioxidants.
• Try a Mediterranean Diet: This kind of diet focuses on the consumption of fruits, vegetables, and legumes. According to a report, clinically depressed people who tried out followed this diet for several weeks felt better. Increasing omega 3 in your diet significantly reduces your anxiety. This diet focuses on eating fatty fish like tuna and salmon (rich in omega 3), whole grains, raw nuts, and olive oil. Moderate consumption of sweets is also encouraged.
• Carbohydrates: It remarkably lights up your mood and gives you the feeling of fullness. It acts as an effective fuel for the brain and enhances its performance. Carbohydrates are found in fruits and vegetables. They improve brain health and stabilize your mood.
• Cutting down sugar and saturated fats: Reducing the intake of sugar has a significant role in making you feel better. It is addictive and consists of bad carbohydrates that accumulate in your body. Saturated fats such as oily and processed food are extremely harmful to the body. It decreases brain function and reduces your attention span.

Footnote

Along with ensuring that your body is healthy and operating properly, it is equally important to check on your mental health. There are various other medications such as therapy to cure mental health disorders but a nourishing diet is indispensable. Try culminating a balanced diet for the body as well as the mind.