Food and Nutrition
Diet and Mental Health. There is research to suggest that what we eat may affect not just our physical health, but also our mental health and wellbeing. Eating well (i.e. a well-balanced diet rich in vegetables and nutrients) may be associated with feelings of wellbeing.
How can food affect mood?
Knowing what foods, we should and shouldn’t be eating can be really confusing, especially when it feels like the advice changes regularly. However, evidence suggests that as well as affecting our physical health, what we eat may also affect the way we feel. Improving your diet may help to:
- improve your mood
- give you more energy
- help you think more clearly
Quick tips:
Eating breakfast gets the day off to a good start and instead of eating a large lunch and dinner, try eating smaller portions spaced out more regularly throughout the day. Avoid foods which make your blood sugar rise and fall rapidly, such as sweets, biscuits, sugary drinks, and alcohol. Everything in moderation is always a good start. Don’t rush into cutting or reducing right down on certain things.
"I made a decision that I was going to make positive lifestyle changes and eating a healthy balanced die and try live as happily and stress-free as I could. I gave up snacking and gained a routine of eating three meals a day instead of one and I have seen a significant difference to not only my physical appearance but my mental health.”
Chris Dow, VP.
Chris’ Top Tip - Staying hydrated
If you don’t drink enough fluid, you may find it difficult to concentrate or think clearly. You might also start to feel constipated (which puts no one in a good mood) or gain headaches. Water is free and probably one of the healthiest options you can choose. It’s recommended that you drink between 6–8 glasses of fluid a day. Tea, coffee, juices and smoothies all count towards your intake (but be aware that these may also contain caffeine or sugar).
For more information go to:
https://www.mind.org.uk/information-support/tips-for-everyday-living/food-and-mood/about-food-and-mood/ © Mind. This information is published in full at mind.org.uk