We often hear– you are what you eat. But it can often also mean that -you feel how you eat. In recent times, researchers have found a strong link between what we put on our plates and how it affects our mind in certain ways. How we process our emotions may have a strong link with what we eat. While depression is a complex condition that works on the interaction between certain psychological, environmental and genetic factors – our diet also surprisingly has a crucial role.
A growing body of research shows that our diet can lift up our mood as well as play a part in worsening it in the long run. Diet’s rich and refined sugar, processed and unhealthy fats are linked to higher rates of depression. On the contrary, nutrient dense foods like foods, vegetables, whole grain and omega-3 fatty acids truly support brain health, and emotional balance. Essentially speaking, a healthy gut often equal a very healthy mind.
The gut produces about 90% of the body serotonin – it is a neuro transmitter that is responsible for feelings of happiness and well-being. So, you get the gist here. Unless a body consumes what is required of it, it will never be able to produce and regulate the emotions in a positive manner when the gut’s microbiome is healthy through fiber rich and unprocessed foods, it is bound to send positive signals to the brain. But due to today’s sedentary lifestyle, unhealthy food has found its way in every single one of our meals. This pattern continued in the long run is a recipe for a mind’s disaster. It contributes to more swings, fatigue, and depressive symptoms.
A list of important nutrients like vitamin B12, four, zinc, and magnesium play an essential in regulating mood. A deficiency in these can lead to symptoms that mimic and worse, depression. Conversely, Mediterranean style diets like the FODMAP diet have been linked to lower rates of depression and anxiety.
Depression is simple to understand yet very complicated to navigate mental health condition. If you feel that you are facing issues like these very frequently, it is wise to consult the best psychiatrist in Bangalore for a personalized treatment plan.
A psychiatrist in Bangalore can help you understand your depressive symptoms and their roots of origin in a more precise and detailed manner. In the end, the message is quite simple – what we eat shapes how we feel. So, the next time you reach for a meal– think about your body and mind at the same time.
Leave a comment