Not only does what we eat impact our physical health but, the food we eat affects our mental health and how we physically feel. Unhealthy foods, such as sugary and deep-fried snacks, and processed foods can negatively affect your mood, causing you to feel low.
Studies have linked foods that are high in saturated fat to depression and dementia. Foods high in carbohydrates can increase the production of melatonin, a hormone that regulates your mood. As serotonin production increases, you feel happy and relaxed.
Foods rich in protein such as tofu, chicken, and beans, on the other hand, can increase the production of dopamine, a hormone that promotes happiness and pleasure. High-fat foods containing empty calories can not only make you feel sluggish, but they can also increase your risk of mental disorders.
How Foods We Eat Affect How We Feel
Recent studies show how nutrition affects mental health. The hippocampus is an area of the brain responsible for generating new neurons. The process is known as neurogenesis. Research shows that neurogenesis affects mood and cognition. Researchers believe that neurogenesis may improve memory and help manage mental disorders such as depression and anxiety.
The best family doctor near you in Sonoma believes a healthy diet is a balanced diet. Each meal should consist of lean meats, fresh fruits, grains, and vegetables to promote neurogenesis. An unhealthy diet that contains foods rich in saturated fats can negatively affect neurogenesis. These studies tell us that the Standard American Diet, which includes high sodium foods, refined grains, and other foods high in saturated fat, increases one’s risk of depression and other mental disorders.
Your gut bacteria determines how well your body absorbs nutrients from the food you eat. They also reduce inflammation and activate neural pathways that determine the amount of serotonin produced. Serotonin is a neurotransmitter that regulates mood, sleep, and appetite. Processed foods can harm the gut microbiome, which is why you should seriously consider reducing your intake of foods with preservatives.
There is no one-size-fits-all diet. Your nutritional requirements can be very different from your friends and loved ones. The best family doctor near you in Sonoma can create a tailored meal plan that fits your specific needs.
The Proof Is in the Pudding
A 2016 study of more than 12,000 Australians found that people who increased their fruit and vegetable intake were happier and more satisfied with their life than those who ate less fruits and vegetables. Another study of 422 young adults reported that individuals who regularly ate fruits and vegetables had better mental health.
Dr. Guy is committed to helping his patients improve their physical and mental well-being. His empathetic attitude sets him apart from other doctors in Sonoma. To learn more, call (707) 938-1255.
