"Nutrition and Mental Health: Fuelling Your Mind for the Ups and Downs"

Mental health is talked about a lot more these days which is great - but the link with nutrition and our gut health isn't. What you put on your plate isn't just about satisfying your taste buds; it's a powerhouse of support for your mental well-being.

Our brains need the right fuel to do it's job. What we eat directly impacts mood, cognitive abilities, and even how we handle stress. So, that salad or sandwich you're contemplating for lunch isn't just a meal—it's a brain buffet.

For instance serotonin, the mood-regulating neurotransmitter is heavily influenced by what you eat. Foods rich in tryptophan, like turkey, nuts, and seeds, contribute to the production of serotonin. So, that post-lunch serotonin surge? Thank your nutritional choices for the good vibes.

Omega 3s are also vital for brain function. It's the fatty acids that don't just keep the cell membrane fluid, they help with the communication between neurons. Found in fatty fish, flaxseeds, and walnuts, these healthy fats are essential for cognitive function and can even lend a hand in managing stress. Definitely your brain's best friend.

The gut connection is more known about now and this is because it's the gateway to your brain. It regulates so many digestive processes that maintain your metabolism and immune health but also helps synthesis and regulation of neurotransmitters. An intact gut lining helps to regulate the vagus nerve so it's transmission to the brain is healthy. There are many receptors in our gut that signal to the brain that all is not well - that's why we can get that 'gut feeling' about something. Ways to help keep your gut happy are probiotics like kefir and fermented foods - these help keep the gut lining intact and strong.

If you want to know one change you can make to help support your brain health - I'm doing free diet analysis this month - I'll send you a 7 day food diary to complete and then let you know one change or a top tip that you can implement to help support your mental health 🌿