Mental health, depression and stress
Bad food choices may affect the way we feel mentally. If your blood sugar is unstable you may get moody, short tempered, have headaches, get panicky or anxious. Avoiding the sugar rollercoaster by learning how to control your blood sugar levels is a great way to potentially lessen depression. Cutting back on highly refined and sugar rich foods may help stop creating surges in blood sugar. By focusing on foods that release sugar slowly and consistently into the blood stream like complex carbohydrates and by eating protein with each meal and snack you can start to change and lift your mood.
Here's what Mind says: "Of course at a simple level we all know certain foods are good for us or can affect our mood. However, linking real information and evidence with effective ways of using it can be a really efficient tool in managing your mental health"
Other areas that may affect your mood
- Are you dehydrated? Dehydration can affect your ability to think clearly.
- Are you eating enough Omega 3 rich foods to oil your brain?
- Are you craving sugar and caffeine which may affect your blood sugar levels?
- Are you eating enough protein? Protein contains the building blocks for brain chemicals that influence how you think and feel.
- Are you eating too many preservatives, additives or E numbers?
- Are you intolerant to certain foods?
- Are you deficient in vitamin B and magnesium?
“I never thought that what I was eating and drinking could be affecting my mood until I saw Kate. I have had mild depression for years and suffer from anxiety quite badly. I lived off chocolate, alcohol and coffee. I got a total overhaul of my diet and lifestyle and very quickly my anxiety calmed down, and the depression has virtually gone. My young daughter says she feels she has got her dad back. I have more energy and am feeling positive for the future.”Paul, Eastbourne
