At Freshly Chopped, we’ve always been passionate about promoting healthy eating and the profound impact it can have on your mental well-being. As we celebrate World Mental Health Day in 2023, we want to reiterate the significance of caring for both your physical and mental health. Your internal well-being deserves attention, even when it’s not immediately visible to the naked eye. In this blog, we’ll delve into how your diet can influence your mood and provide fresh insights and tips for integrating healthy eating into your self-care routines.
The Connection Between Food and Mood
Understanding the link between food and mood can be like navigating a dynamic landscape. However, the evidence remains consistent: our diet not only shapes our physical health but also plays a substantial role in our emotional well-being. A diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, seeds, and unsaturated fats can significantly contribute to better mental health – something we at Chopped are deeply committed to.
Colourful Fruits and Vegetables for Nutrient Variety
Fruits and vegetables are veritable treasure troves of essential minerals, vitamins, and fibre that are vital for maintaining both physical and mental health. By incorporating a diverse range of colourful fruits and vegetables into your daily diet, you ensure you’re nourishing your body and mind with a wide spectrum of nutrients, supporting your mental well-being in every bite.
Elevating Gut Health
Your gut often mirrors your emotional state. Stress and anxiety can influence your digestion, making it either sluggish or overly active. To maintain a healthy gut, focus on a diet rich in fibre, fluids, and regular exercise. Consider adding gut-friendly foods such as fruits, vegetables, whole grains, beans, live yoghurt, and probiotics to your diet. Don’t forget our Chopped Green Machine smoothie, a delicious and convenient way to introduce gut-boosting elements into your daily routine.
Protein for Cognitive Function
Proteins contain amino acids, which play a pivotal role in regulating your thoughts and feelings. They also contribute to a feeling of fullness, preventing energy crashes. Seek out protein sources like lean meat, fish, eggs, cheese, legumes, soya products, nuts, and seeds. At Chopped, we offer a variety of protein options, including vegan options, nuts and seeds that can enhance your salads. Remember, you can always bulk up your bowl or wrap it with extra protein to suit your needs.
Choosing the Right Fats
While the brain primarily runs on glucose, it’s also predominantly composed of fat. There are two main types of fats: saturated and unsaturated. To maintain a positive mood and healthy cholesterol levels, limit your intake of saturated fats. These fats are most prevalent in processed items such as biscuits, bars, crisps, and takeaways, as well as fatty meats, cream, butter, full-fat spreads, and cheeses.
Examples of Good Fats:
- Avocado: Avocado is a rich source of monounsaturated fats, which can help reduce bad cholesterol levels and promote heart health. It’s a versatile ingredient that can be added to salads, sandwiches, or enjoyed as guacamole.
- Olive Oil: Extra virgin olive oil is a staple in Mediterranean cuisine and is known for its high content of monounsaturated fats.
- Fatty Fish: Salmon, mackerel, trout, and sardines are loaded with omega-3 fatty acids, which are beneficial for both brain health and cardiovascular health. Aim to include these fish in your diet regularly.
- Nuts: Almonds, walnuts, pistachios, and other nuts are packed with unsaturated fats, fiber, and antioxidants. They make for a satisfying and heart-healthy snack when consumed in moderation.
- Seeds: Flaxseeds, chia seeds, and hemp seeds are high in omega-3 fatty acids.
- Nut Butter: Opt for natural nut butter without added sugars or hydrogenated oils.
By incorporating these sources of good fats into your diet, you can help maintain a positive mood and support healthier cholesterol levels while avoiding the negative effects associated with saturated fats found in processed and high-fat dairy products.
As we observe World Mental Health Day in 2023, we encourage you to prioritise your well-being from the inside out. Extend kindness to yourself and those around you, recognising that each individual may be facing their unique challenges beneath the surface. By taking proactive steps to care for your mental health and nurturing your body with a diet rich in essential nutrients, you can embark on a journey of holistic well-being, fostering positive change from within. The Freshly Chopped Team extends warm wishes for a happy and mentally well World Mental Health Day!
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