When you think of mental health treatments, what immediately comes to mind? It’s usually therapy, right? Well, yes, that is by far one common option that everyone goes for, and then there’s there’s the more holistic approaches, such as going outside, socializing, exercising to get some endorphins, basic self-care, and of course, getting in some of that Vitamin D.
So, by all means, all of these (yes, including seeing a mental health professional) are wonderful ways to boost your mental health, and they’re certainly actions that you should be taking, too. But these aren’t the only ones; your diet plays a massive role. Have you ever eaten a bunch of junk food, and not only did you physically feel bad, but mentally you did too?
Well, that’s a great example of this. What you eat and your mental health are both heavily intertwined. So, with that all said, let’s dive more into this.
There’s the Gut-Brain Connection
So, it’s best to start off with the gut-brain connection. Sounds a bit sci-fi, doesn’t it? But it’s totally real. Your gut is often called your “second brain” because it’s packed with millions of neurons that communicate directly with your brain. When your gut is happy, it sends good vibes to your brain, and vice versa.
This goes back to that example from earlier: when you eat a bunch of junk food, you mentally feel awful. That’s exactly why it’s so important to look into eating a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins. It can keep your gut flora healthy and diverse, which, in turn, helps your brain stay sharp and positive.
Junk Food Causes the Blues
Have you ever noticed how you feel sluggish and irritable after a fast-food binge? Well, there’s a reason for that, and that’s because junk food can mess with your mood. Yes, it’s true! Actually, high-sugar and high-fat foods can lead to spikes and crashes in your blood sugar levels, making you feel cranky and tired. But is that all, though?
Well, on the flip side, a diet that includes complex carbs like sweet potatoes, brown rice, and whole-wheat bread can provide a steady stream of energy, keeping your mood stable and your mind clear.
Never Underestimate the Power of Probiotics
So, there are some studies still happening about this, but from the looks of it, there might be a chance that having strong gut health can actually lead to feeling better mentally. So, you need probiotics for this. These friendly bacteria are found in fermented foods like yogurt, kefir, sauerkraut, and kimchi (but you can buy powders and supplements too).
They can help balance the bacteria in your gut, which in turn can boost your mood and cognitive function. So, next time you’re at the grocery store, consider adding some probiotic-rich foods to your cart.
Dehydration Causes Mood Swings
All right, so everyone knows that dehydration can make them tired, even angry, but did you know that overall, dehydration can lead to mood swings? Now just that, but also it can lead to anxiety, and difficulty concentrating. You most likely already knew this, but if you’re experiencing this, then it’s finally time to aim to drink at least eight glasses of water a day, and even more if you’re active.