Anxiety, depression, and panic disorders are common mental health conditions affecting over 50 million people in the USA alone. While many folks have a predisposition to these conditions and need medical treatment, changing our diets and lifestyles can have a significant impact as well.
Carbohydrates
Carbohydrates are sometimes avoided in certain diets like the Keto diet – this values protein more highly and supports fat burning. However, carbohydrates play an important role in brain function, without them not enough energy gets to the brain and makes you weak and tired.
The brain’s energy is derived from glucose in the blood, and it’s up to carbohydrates to create this glucose. Foods that contain carbohydrates include whole grains, vegetables, fruits, and legumes. When the blood glucose levels in your brain aren’t balanced, it can also create anxiety.
Fibre
Fiber is often promoted in foods, especially morning cereals because it helps to fill you up and supports your digestive tract. If you want to have a healthy body and brain, make sure you have enough fiber in your diet. Rich sources of fiber include beans, wholegrains, fruit and vegetables.
Fiber not only helps your digestive tract to absorb solids and liquids more easily and fuel the brain, it balances the body’s blood sugar level, helping to maintain energy stability. Avoid sugar rushes and speed up your metabolism by including more fiber in your diet throughout the day.
Proteins
If you are prone to anxiety, depression, or any other common mental health condition, you can benefit from supporting your moods with amino acids. These are neurotransmitters that help the brain’s neurons to communicate. Amino acids can be found in many food types, such as protein.
Protein is an excellent source of amino acids, so including more protein in your diet can support mood stability and brain function. Suitable proteins to eat include meat, fish, eggs, nuts, and seeds. Support your wellbeing with protein and natural products like aloe vesta cleansing foam.
Fats
When we think of fatty foods, we tend to think they are unhealthy and should be avoided. In some cases, this is true; it’s not a good idea to eat lots of fast food if you’re prone to mental health issues. However, not all fats are detrimental; there is such a thing as healthy fats too.
The brain has many structural components, and it wouldn’t function very well without the support of dietary some fats. Fats are responsible for creating cell membranes and influencing brain cell function. You can get all your healthy fats from foods such as omega-3 and omega-6.
Vitamins and Minerals
As well as supporting the body and brain with the healthy foods above, we also need to eat a balanced diet with plenty of vitamins and minerals in it. The good news is these are easier to ingest thanks to the wide range of smoothie drinks and vitamin supplements on the market. Try to consume one smoothie every day, or take a vitamin supplement and like some omega-3 oil.
