Some chemicals in food can help promote a balanced and healthy mind, from fatty fish to whole grains and leafy greens.
Top Counseling Schools recently created an Infographic giving much “food for thought” about the food that we eat and the health of our brain. They found that certain foods will help further our brain’s cognitive abilities, while other types of food can have a negative effect on our brain.
Stimulating Food
According to Top Counseling Schools, there are 5 recommended foods that balance the chemicals in the brain, which then stimulate brain activity:
Fatty Fish – Many cold water fish like salmon, herring, sardines and mackerel are high in omega-3 fatty acids, which boost dopamine and serotonin levels in the brain. Fatty acids also help areas of the brain responsible for learning and memory.
Whole Grains – Complex carbohydrates like whole grains release glucose at a steady rate, instead of simple carbohydrates which spike blood sugar levels. Whole grains help us feel fuller longer and give the brain fuel over a longer period of time.
Lean Proteins – Lean proteins like fish, chicken, turkey, eggs and beans help balance serotonin levels and keep them regular.
Leafy Greens – Greens like spinach, romaine, mustard greens and broccoli have high amounts of folic acid. The selenium in broccoli also helps us maintain a healthy immune system.
Yogurt with active cultures – The probiotics, or healthy bacteria, present in some yogurts have been shown in various studies to reduce anxiety and stress. They also help keep our immune system strong and ward off bad bacteria in the gut.
Foods to Avoid
On the opposite end, there are foods and eating habits that should be avoided for those people that suffer from anxiety, depression and other mental illness.
Sugary drinks – They spike your blood sugar, which can cause anxiety.
Excessive caffeine – Caffeine can trigger panic attacks in those prone to anxiety.
Skipping breakfast – Eating breakfast stabilizes blood sugar and metabolism rates.
High-fat foods – Most dairy, fried, refined and sugary foods have no nutritional value and can lead to obesity.
Find out more information in the Top Counseling School “Food and Mental Health” Infographic below
Source: TopCounselingSchools.org
Tell Us What You Think!
You must be logged in to post a comment.