Many mental health professionals, pften suggest with foods that boost emotional well-being. What you eat significantly impacts your mood, energy levels and overall health. A growing body of research shows that eating certain foods can help treat common mental health issues like depression and anxiety.
Here are six foods that can boost emotional well-being:
Whole grains
Whole grains are rich in B vitamins, zinc, magnesium and iron.
Whole grains are a good source of fibre that helps keep your digestive system healthy. This will help you feel less bloated and anxious due to digestive issues.
Fibre also helps to lower cholesterol levels which can have an effect on mood as well as the risk of heart disease.
Seeds and nuts
Nuts and seeds are a rich source of protein, fibre, healthy fats and more nutrients that help lower cholesterol and improve heart health. Many people think nuts are fattening because they contain fat, but research shows that eating nuts every day can actually reduce your risk of obesity (1).
The high amount of plant-based protein in nuts also makes them suitable for your brain: Eating foods with plenty of essential amino acids—like almonds or walnuts—can boost mood by increasing serotonin levels (2). Increased serotonin levels also help you feel less stressed out because they’re linked to lower cortisol levels (3).
Nuts aren’t just good for the body; they can also be great for your emotions!
Fatty fish
Omega-3 fatty acids are essential nutrients that our bodies can’t produce, so we need to obtain them from food. Fatty fish, such as salmon and mackerel, are the best source of omega-3s. They also contain high amounts of protein, which is low in calories and helps with feelings of fullness. A high intake of omega-3s has been linked to better heart health and brain health (including memory).
Matcha
Matcha is a powdered green tea that contains L-theanine, an amino acid that can help reduce stress. It also contains caffeine, which may help improve mood by increasing dopamine levels and reducing the tension headache symptoms of caffeine withdrawal. Matcha is high in antioxidants, which could be helpful for those with anxiety disorders or a negative outlook on life.
In addition to these health benefits, matcha can make you feel more alert and focused for much longer than other types of tea because it has about half the caffeine content as regular brewed green tea but has more nutrients per serving if you’re looking for something that will give you energy without leaving you feeling jittery or anxious—and still boost your mood at the same time!
Asparagus
Asparagus is a good source of folate, a B vitamin that helps to maintain mood balance. It’s also high in vitamin C, which can help reduce stress. Asparagus has plenty of vitamin K and B6, both known to promote emotional well-being. An added benefit of this veggie? Asparagus contains potassium, which is essential for healthy sleep patterns.
Oysters
Oysters are rich in zinc, which is vital for your immune system and helps you fight off colds and the flu. Oysters are also rich in vitamin B12, which plays a vital role in energy metabolism. And we all know how important that is!
Zinc deficiency can cause a whole host of mental health issues. A lack of B12 can lead to low energy levels and difficulties concentrating or paying attention, making it challenging to complete tasks at work or school.
Conclusion
This post may have helped you learn more about certain foods’ effects on your mental health. Remember that it’s essential to listen to your body: everyone is different and will respond differently, so always pay attention to how each food makes you feel!
If you find yourself experiencing issues related to anxiety or depression, please seek professional help.
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