Food for Thought: How Food Impacts Your Mental Health

Healthy eating is seemingly impossible nowadays, at least according to the internet. The mental toll that the internet can take is obvious, and one topic we see it affecting the most is people's relationships with food. From gym influencers posting “What I Eat in Day” videos to body positivity movements that often underemphasize healthy eating, even dieticians reacting to videos and criticizing every little thing. These toxic posts can create a stressful environment around food, but ultimately, a healthy relationship with food is essential for a healthy life. There are many reasons why what you eat matters, but I want to hone in on the mental health benefits of healthy eating in the simplest way possible.

So, let's start by discussing some incredible things that eating a nutrient-rich diet can do. The most straightforward way that healthy eating affects health is by literally improving your mood. Foods rich in omega-3 fatty acids and vitamins help our bodies regulate their neurotransmitters. This includes the body's production of serotonin and dopamine, which are commonly associated with the body's feeling of happiness. These foods can help relieve feelings of stress and depression. Some examples are fatty fish, like salmon, nuts, and seeds. Also, foods rich in antioxidants, magnesium, and B vitamins may help ease some of the adverse effects of stress. Also, some foods have properties that have been shown to lower cholesterol levels, which are the body's stress hormone, including leafy greens and whole grains. To stick with the theme of how healthy eating can help you function, a balanced diet with plenty of fruits, vegetables, and healthy fats can help maintain cognitive functions. This includes basic brain functions like its ability to focus, make decisions, and memory strength. 

Aside from the literal impacts a healthy diet has been proven to show in regards to your brain's ability to function positively, food can also profoundly impact how we feel. One example is how healthy eating can often give a person more energy and motivation. Carbs and protein work together to keep the body running throughout the day. Having ample amounts of both helps to relieve tiredness and grogginess. To go along with that, healthy eating can also improve sleep. Sleep is a crucial part of a person's mental health, so eating a balanced and nutrition-focused diet can help ensure you maximize sleep's benefits. 

Food can also add a lot of stress to a person's life. To help combat this, surround yourself with nutrient-dense snacks and try your hardest to eat balanced meals. Prioritizing whole foods is a great way to ensure you are fueling your body. Another important thing regarding food stress is that despite what the intranet may tell you, there is no bad food. Removing any guilt you may feel from food is the first step in maintaining healthy habits around food. Each food has something great to offer; it’s just how you frame it. 

The next time you feel down, ask yourself: What have I eaten today? What simple changes can I make in the foods I select to make me more energized and happy? You just might find an easy pick-me-up!

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For more mental health resources check out sadd.org/programs.