Nutrition and Its Relationship with Mental health and Well-being

Nutrition and mental health do not sound like they may be connected to each other in some way, but they are very closely linked to one another. Both influence each other in ways that are subtle yet significant when you consider overall health and well-being. How are these two seemingly unrelated factors linked to one another? How do they work together to affect your overall well-being?

Balanced diet for a healthy body and mind

Before any discussion, here are a few research numbers for you to consider:

• Almost two thirds of all people surveyed and studied who do not suffer from mental health problems regularly consume fresh fruit or fruit juices.
• Those who have been diagnosed with mental health issues make a higher number of unhealthy than healthy dietary choices on a daily basis, and have an unbalanced diet.
• Those who consume processed foods regularly have been found to be more susceptible to mental illnesses, especially anxiety and depression, than those who consume such food products less often.

There are many more examples of this kind to consider in this discussion. The more researchers study the link, the stronger the connection between food and mental health becomes.

An increasing number of psychiatrists and counselors are recommending dietary changes to their patients to deal more effectively with mental health issues. Nutritional psychiatry is an emerging field that specialized in nutritional balance to treat psychiatric issues in patients.

How to not be caught up in a vicious cycle of unhealthy eating and poor mental health

To begin with, what is the vicious cycle? It is quite simple and straightforward, actually. Inadequate or unbalanced nutrition leads to weight gain, hormonal imbalances, and other health issues, which in turn lead to depression, anxiety and other mental health issues. These mental health issues make you isolate yourself socially, lose self-confidence, and seek comfort in food and being alone, leading to poor nutrition. It is an endless cycle of self-destruction that you must avoid at all costs.

How to ensure you do not get caught up in this vicious cycle?

• Do not ignore nutrition and the dietary requirements of your body.
• If stress or other factors lead to mental health problems, make a conscious effort to eat right and eat well to cope with the problems.
• Make a concerted effort to pay attention to what you eat, and ensure to have a balanced diet, especially if you are biologically inclined to gain weight or have mental health issues.
• Consult a nutritionist to understand what your body requires and make dietary and lifestyle changes accordingly.

It takes a lot of effort to eat right and not turn to comfort food when you are not feeling well or struggling with mental health problems. But you should know that most comfort food will only make your mental health problems worse rather than better in the long run. Instead, eating good, nutritionally rich food can actually help you fight and overcome mental health problems in a holistic way and emerge as a healthier, happier person. To know more you can get in touch with our providers and physicians at Phoenix Family Medical Clinic.

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