Food Can Affect Your Mood

Did you know? Food can affect your mood! 
⁣⁣
As living beings, what we consume on a daily basis has a significant impact on our overall well-being. Many of us learned as children that what we eat is directly correlated with our weight and physical health, but what about our mental health? The food/mind connection is equally as important, yet it’s less more common to discuss. Let’s change that, shall we? ⁣⁣
⁣⁣
“When we consider the connection between the brain and the gut, it’s important to know that 90% of serotonin receptors are located in the gut. When someone is prescribed an antidepressant such as a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI), the most common side effects are gut-related, and many people temporarily experience nausea, diarrhea, or gastrointestinal problems. There is anatomical and physiologic two-way communication between the gut and brain via the vagus nerve. The gut-brain axis offers us a greater understanding of the connection between diet and disease, including depression and anxiety.”⁣⁣
⁣⁣
Just like an expensive car, your brain can experience damage if you consume anything other than “premium fuel”. When you eat “less premium fuel”, such as processed or refined foods, your brain can’t function at its maximum potential which can lead to a significant impact on your overall mental state and mood. Pay attention to what you eat and how certain foods make you feel – you might be surprised with what you discover about yourself!
⁣⁣
Fun fact: there is a wellness approach called ’Nutritional Psychiatry’ that uses food and supplements in the treatment of mental health conditions.

Here’s to a happy gut!⁣⁣