When we talk of general health or wellness of the mind, we all know it is directly connected to the food we choose to eat. A healthy mind and body is a result of healthy food. Let us check out some really good food for the mind, I mean food for your brain to improve your mental health and wellness.
# Oily Fish — It has been a known fact fish is good food for the brain because it contains the little fatty acid by the name DHA, an Omega-3 fatty acid which is very helpful in improving short and long term memory, which is the optimal brain condition. Hence these Omega-3 fatty acids used in a diet can actually boost feelings of mental health and wellness and also reduce anxiety. DHA is found in oily fish such as salmon, trout and prawns, a fish supplement could do the same job if you would not want to have seafood.
# Berries — Antioxidants help in repairing cells along with combating inflammation caused by free radical damage. These antioxidants also assist in improving symptoms of anxiety and depression. Berries such as strawberries, blueberries, raspberries and blackberries do contain a compound called polyphenolics are known to improve memory, concentration and attention span.
# Yogurt — The benefits of yoghurt is a well-known fact especially in promoting good digestion and gut health. The probiotics present in yoghurt have been a favourite of most people of all ages. Recent research has found probiotics being beneficial in brain-gut connection. Yoghurt has the capacity to improve a person’s mental health by lowering levels of stress, anxiety and depression.
# Wholegrains — Wholegrains are known to be full of carbohydrates, a powerhouse of energy, hence it is on our daily diet. Whole grains are a rich source of tryptophan, an amino acid that helps produce a good hormone called serotonin. Serotonin helps in calming the mind and improving your mood and also helps in maintaining a steady sleep cycle.
# Walnuts — Walnuts being full of antioxidants help id the process of oxidation of the brain and the body. These nuts have an amazing capacity in the growth of new neurons, in simple words, it means these walnuts can help grow new brain cells, which is the ultimate requirement for a healthy brain. Therefore snack on a handful of walnuts next time for long term brain health as well as mental health.
# Leafy greens — Leafy greens have always outnumbered the benefits they offer to the human body when compared to any other food, and that includes mental health. Latest studies have proven that leafy greens taken on a daily basis can lower cognitive decline. Thus it is essential you include spinach, kale or collard greens in your daily diet.
# Beans — Beans is known to be the number one food that helps in keeping a person on the top regarding happiness, as well as a healthy brain. Filled with the goodness of fibre and antioxidants, beans, legumes, lentils and kidney beans keeps a person feeling full for long hours. These beans also help in keeping your blood sugar stable as they help you burn more energy enabling good mental health. Beans are said to contain thiamine, a vitamin needed to produce acetylcholine which is a neurotransmitter essential for memory.
