How Food Impacts Your Mental Health

The clock hits 2:00pm and you find yourself with heavy eyelids and a strong desire to want to take a nap. The mid-afternoon slump is a common phenomenon and one that people experience all over the world during the work week. Have you ever wondered why your body seems to “crash” in the middle of the afternoon, leaving you wanting to put your head down on your desk so that you can take a quick cat nap? This late afternoon desire to nap is one of the reasons that companies have encouraged their employees to take breaks, get up and walk around when possible, or practice mindfulness in between client calls or meetings.  But, in thinking about your body and how it operates, 2pm is shortly after lunch. Chances are that what you are experiencing is the result of your morning coffee wearing off combined with the fluctuation in your blood sugar causing you to feel like you are in need of a nap. While the example of needing an afternoon nap is one example of how food can impact your mood, there are many more like it. This article will delve further into the impacts of food and your mental health. Let’s get started.

A Poor Diet Does Matter

Many believe that food is just food; that it doesn’t play a critical role in one’s livelihood and the fact of the matter is that this could not be farther from the truth. A poor diet not only impacts your physical health, but also your mental health. Salty, fatty, and high-processed foods are known to be ridden with sugars, chemicals, and impact one’s mental health. Food allergies can also spawn from the consumption of unsavory foods.

An Unhealthy Diet is a Known Risk Factor

Consuming an unhealthy diet on a regular basis is a known risk factor for many mental health issues. Many researchers and professionals in the medical field believe that chemicals, additives, and other ingredients in high-processed foods are contributors to those who experience anxiety, depression, suicidal ideations, and even bipolar disorders. It is believed that the chemicals and additives in these foods, when consumed over a period of time, can cause the brain and body to begin to respond in a way that causes your body to shut down, reduce the production of serotonin, and reduce the quality of your sleep. All of these factors contribute to a poor state of mental health. 

So, What Can You Do?

If you have become accustomed to a less than ideal diet, you are not alone. Life is busy and consuming high-processed foods is easy, convenient and affordable. We are going to help you identify ways that you can make some simple, easy changes to your meal planning routine that will help you go from choosing frozen, high-sodium foods for meals, to easy, delicious nutritious meals that your entire family can enjoy. 

Make Planning Part of Your Routine

The first step to making an impact on your mental health with food is to make meal planning part of your routine. Meal planning doesn’t have to be difficult and by using an app like DishQuo, you will be able to keep track of your meals in an organized fashion, access delicious recipes using all types of nutritious foods, and even order groceries to be delivered.

What Type of Meals Can Improve Mental Health?

Any meals that are rich in nutrients will help to improve your mental health. Your body thrives when you feed it dark, leafy greens as they are rich with vitamins and minerals. Healthy fats, nuts and legumes, fermented foods, and berries are also great ways to satiate your body as these items can help to regulate your cortisol levels and encourage the growth of healthy gut bacteria. While you are feeding your body with the proper nutrients that it needs to live its best life, be sure that you are also properly hydrating with at least 64 ounces of water per day.

Is Meal Planning Possible?

Yes! Meal Planning is easy and anyone can do it. To stay organized and have quick and easy access to new delicious and nutrient-rich meal plans, download the DishQuo app today!