Food for Thought

We are all aware of the significance of a nutritious diet for physical well-being in 2024. What effect does it have on our mental health, though? The brain need nutrition to function, just like the rest of our body, and the quality of that nutrition has a big impact on our mood, cognitive abilities, and even our ability to handle stress.

According to Dr. Sifat E. Syed Auna, an associate professor in the psychiatry department of Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujib Medical University (BSMMU), eating habits have a significant impact on both mental and physical health. Your mental health will benefit from maintaining your physical health.

This straightforward sentence has a deep significance. Auna emphasizes how eating out and highly processed food on a regular basis throws off the delicate balance of elements in our bodies and gradually deteriorates our mental health.

"Dehydration, slowness, fatigue, migraine, unexplained increased heart rate, etc. are just some examples of what excessive sugar, caffeine, artificial flavours and colours contained in these foods can do to our body," she says.

Moderation is crucial, even though occasional indulgence is perfectly acceptable.

Does that imply that the only "healthy living" foods we recommend are leafy greens and cucumbers? Absolutely not! In fact, professionals strongly advise avoiding watching popular YouTube reels for rapid weight loss.

According to Auna, the quick decline in glucose intake, which is generally the main selling point of these diets, immediately alters our hormones, lowering our mood. Prolonged cut down on carbs and fat can, surely, diminish serotonin and dopamine levels in your body, relating it directly to symptoms of despair. However, the ideal meals are those that are prepared at home and have moderate amounts of fats, carbohydrates, and proteins.

Nowadays, there's no one "magic food" that can cure mental illness. On the other hand, some dietary decisions can offer a big benefit. Rich foods that produce "happy hormones" (tryptophan) are vital. Consider almonds, bananas, and even trim cuts of beef.

These choices are emphasized by Dr. Auna as possible tools in the battle against major depression and anxiety.

The essential nutrition omega-3 fatty acids are also crucial for mental wellness. They are frequently present in fatty fish and are well known for improving memory and possibly even easing anxiety symptoms.

The B complexes, C, D, and A vitamins are all vital for healthy brain function and general wellbeing. For example, a vitamin D deficiency has been associated with a higher risk of depression.

The key to a healthy mind on a healthy plate lies in customization. "What works for one person might not work for another," emphasizes Dr. Auna. Variables include physical type, metabolism, and even genetics within the family."

The largest error we make in this situation is starting a diet without first seeing a dietitian.

The advice is very clear: avoid fad diets that are based on ephemeral trends. True change demands a holistic approach. Good sleep, drinking enough of water, and maintaining discipline are all necessary for a healthy mind. Mental health can also be negatively impacted by ongoing stress. Combining a healthy diet with stress-reduction methods like yoga or meditation might be helpful.

"We are quick to point out that kids these days have bad eating habits," Auna explains. "But keep in mind, kids are good observers." It is our responsibility to provide an exemplary example."

And no one has said things truer. Only when we can convince them that eating well is a formula for a vibrant and enjoyable existence will they want to emulate us. Never forget that a healthy body serves as the basis for a nourished mind and that we are what we eat. The journey towards excellent mental health is unique for everyone and there is no single silver pill.

Though there are a lot of promising things to come in the future for food and mental health, you have the ability to change things for the better. A balanced diet, mindful eating, and the incorporation of healthy lifestyle practices can open doors to a world of mental clarity, emotional resilience, and general well-being.