Keeping your mental health is as important as keeping your physical health in check. And just like following some specific diet routines affects our physical wellbeing and health, it does affect our mental health at the same time. Therefore, keeping your diet in check is a must for mental health. And to help you with that here are some foods you can incorporate into your meal to boost your mental health, take a look-
Foods To Improve & Boost Mental Health
- Nuts
Topping the list is nuts. Nuts are commonly known and taken to boost mental health. For example, in India nuts like walnuts, and almonds are especially consumed by people to boost their memory and brain health. Many studies have claimed that people who regularly eat nuts of any kind are less likely to be depressed. Also, nuts are great sources of omega-3 fatty acids.
2. Dark Chocolate
Just like nuts, dark chocolate is also claimed to be a “brain health booster”. Cocoa which is one of the main ingredients in dark chocolate contains high level of antioxidants called flavonoids which helps in boosting mental health. Not only is dark chocolate good for depression but is also good for memory.
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3. Whole Grains
Foods like oatmeal, quinoa, barley, beans and others comes under the category of whole grains. These food ingredients aka the whole grains are beneficial for mental diseases like depression, anxiety and mood swings. Whole grains are naturally rich in an amino acid called tryptophan, to produce the “feel-good hormone,” serotonin, which helps in improving mood and relaxes brain and body.
4. Leafy Greens
Green vegetables and leafy greens are always recommended for boosting mental health. Leafy greens help in preventing diseases like, dementia, insomnia, and depression. Leafy greens are rich in omega-3s, magnesium and other nutrients, which helps in boosting brain health. Kale, spinach and broccoli comes under the category of leafy greens.
5. Chicken & Salmon
Last but not the least is chicken and salmon. For all the non-vegans, the best way to improve their mental health is to consume fatty and cold-water fish like Salmon which is rich in omega-3 fats that helps in preventing and reducing the risk of depression and anxiety.
But if you are not a fish lover then you can consume chicken instead. Chicken contains tryptophan which helps in boosting your memory and also prevents diseases like depression. Chicken also contains Vitamin B and magnesium which are good for brain.
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