Mental health:-
1.Food and mental health are correlated:
We learn early on that eating a healthy diet benefits our appearance and well-being. We don’t often realise how important a healthy diet is for our mental health. A well-balanced, nutritious diet can help us think more clearly and feel more alert. It also increases attention span and concentration.
A poor diet, on the other hand, can lead to fatigue, poor decision-making, and a delayed reaction time. A poor diet can aggravate and even cause stress and depression.
Certain foods can be detrimental to mental health in a variety of ways. Here are a couple of
2. Processed foods:
Processed foods are frequently high in sugar, salt, and unhealthy fats, which can result in blood sugar spikes and crashes, resulting in mood swings and irritability. Furthermore, excessive sugar consumption has been linked to depression and anxiety. Sugar and processed foods can increase inflammation in the body and brain, potentially contributing to mood disorders like anxiety and depression.
When we are anxious or depressed, we frequently turn to processed foods for a quick pick-me-up. In times of stress, a cup of coffee replaces a full breakfast, and healthy fruits and vegetables replace high-fat, high-calorie fast food. When you’re down, a pint of ice cream turns into dinner.
3. Caffeine:
“Consuming too much caffeine can lead to feelings of anxiety, nervousness, and irritability,” says Dr. Rohini Patil, MBBS, Nutritionist, and CEO of Nutracy Lifestyle. It can also interfere with sleep, exacerbating feelings of anxiety and depression. Caffeine, a stimulant, disrupts the sleep cycle and makes you feel energised. Furthermore, it reduces the absorption of important vitamins that regulate mood. You should avoid energy drinks because they have the same amount of caffeine as 10 cans of Coke. The key is moderation, so choose your beverage wisely. Instead, try herbal teas such as peppermint, lavender, or lemon balm. These hot beverages are soothing and revitalising.”
4. Alcohol:Excessive alcohol consumption can cause depression and anxiety, as well as disrupt sleep quality. Alcohol consumption frequently causes sleep disruption and blood sugar spikes, especially when consumed on an empty stomach. Excessive alcohol consumption can result in dehydration and anxiety-inducing hangover symptoms. Hangover symptoms include dehydration, lack of sleep, a lack of B vitamins, and the alcohol detox process, all of which can cause anxiety and tension.
5. High-Fat Foods:
A diet high in saturated and trans fats can increase the risk of depression and anxiety. Saturated fats, such as those found in butter, high-fat dairy, and deli meats, can clog arteries and reduce blood flow to the brain, impairing its ability to perform optimally. The combination of these harmful fats and sugar is even worse
! According to studies, a diet high in added sugars and saturated fats is consistently associated with higher levels of anxiety.
6. Gluten:Gluten, a protein found in wheat, barley, and rye, causes inflammation in the brain and has been linked to mood disorders such as depression and anxiety in some people. According to a large body of research, people who suffer from anxiety should consider eliminating or reducing their gluten intake to see if their symptoms improve. Gluten is a problem for people who have non-celiac sensitivity as well as celiac disease.
7. The takeaway:
“It’s important to note that while these foods may not cause mental health issues on their own, consuming them in excess or in large amounts can disrupt the balance of chemicals and hormones in our body, which can affect our mental well-being,” Dr. Patil advises. Eating a well-balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains can promote overall health and well-being while also lowering the risk of mental health problems.”
