Mood Food

August 25, 2021
I was recently asked…how is it possible that food affects anxiety?  Ongoing studies reflect a strong gut/brain connection between food and mental health.  Our microbiome contain trillions of microorganisms that regulate brain function along the “gut-brain axis”. 
What we eat, feeds either the beneficial or not so beneficial bacteria.  When imbalanced, these bacteria in your intestinal lining can cause anxiety. As I started eating foods to manage inflammation in my body, the resulting moments of pure joy and elevated energy, were amazing to me. 

This new approach to eating was healing my gut and, as a side benefit, positively affecting my mood.  In contrast, when I cave with foods that aren’t serving my biology (i.e. reaching for something more processed or sweeter for lunch dessert or during an afternoon slump) I notice increased impatience and irritation with the kids by dinner time.

While everyone is unique, reducing sugary and processed foods helps.  On the flip side, incorporating nutrient-dense whole foods like mood-boosting salads, wild seafood and fresh herbs into your diet promotes well-being.  Here are specific top anti-depressant foods from an evidence-based World Journal of Psychiatry ranking:
World Journal of Psychiatry Anti-depressant foods
Animal FoodsPlant Foods
OysterWatercress
Organ Meat (heart, liver)Spinach
ClamMustard Greens
MusselsLettuce (Red, Green, Romaine)
OctopusSwiss Chard
CrabFresh herbs (Basil, Cilantro, Parsley)
TunaPummelo
LobsterPeppers (bell, serrano)
Rainbow TroutKale
SalmonPumpkin
(Read the full list.)

Leave a Reply

{"email":"Email address invalid","url":"Website address invalid","required":"Required field missing"}

Free

Meal Rescue!

Simplify nutrition & fuel your body with this meal plan, plus recipes for the week.

%d bloggers like this: