Nutrition plays a profound impact on mental health. Poor nutrition is linked with mental illness, whereas optimal nutrition is linked to its prevention and treatment.
What does this mean?
Optimal nutrition does not just mean providing the bare minimum to survive, but rather a nutrient-dense diet that is tailored to the individual’s needs.
Food and mood
Inflammation in the brain and body is one of the major contributors to depression and other mental illnesses. The cause of inflammation can be attributed to a diet high in overly processed foods, refined sugars, and chemical additives such as preservatives. These foods can act as a stressor to the body and trigger inflammation.
On the other hand, minimally processed nutrient-dense foods have an anti-inflammatory effect on the body, which can improve depression and stabilize mood.
Individualized nutrition
Just as different types of vehicles require different kinds of gas, our bodies require an individualized approach to diet and nutrition. Everyone has a unique engine that requires a different mix of “fuel”. Our fuel consists of the food and nutrients we put into them.
Making sure to fuel your body properly will ensure optimal function of not only physical but mental health as well.
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