Tags
healthy eating, healthy food, mental health food, mood enhancing food, mood-boosting food, National Mental Health Awareness Week, natural food, nature, vegan food, whole foods, Yoga With Paul
Last week was National Mental Health Awareness Week which focused on the importance of getting out into nature.
Maintaining our mind’s well-being is a day-in, day-out, year-round practice, though. One of the biggest ways we impact our wellness is by what we eat. Which, when you think about it, runs parallel to how we interact with nature.
The more we eat minimally processed, fresh, nutrition-rich whole foods, the stronger our mind and body become. Every bite we take is an interaction with nature, whether eating plant or animal products, so it behooves us to be mindful and selective in those interactions.
These seven foods are packed with nutritional benefits that will lift your spirits by nurturing and energising your body.
Figs
Nothing says ‘sweet summer’ like a ripe, delicious fig. They are also rich in calcium, iron, magnesium, and vitamins A and K, ensuring your body is getting the fuel it needs to carry out cellular processes. Their sugar content is also a natural energy and mood-booster, great after a yoga session.
Spinach
Inexpensive, versatile and a bona fide super-food, spinach is rich in iron and magnesium, which is linked with serotonin production. It is also high in water and fibre, making it naturally cleansing and refreshing — perfect for the warmer summer days to come.
Pumpkin seeds
This humble snack is a fantastic source of minerals including magnesium, phosphorus, manganese, iron and zinc. These nutrients support neurotransmitter production, oxygenation and healing, among other things, helping your body protect and regenerate itself.
Berries
We’re heading into the season for fresh, ripe berries. The good news is that, in addition to tasting delicious, they contain substances called phytonutrients that are believed to protect the brain from the effects of stress. So whip up that smoothie or sprinkle berries on your porridge or even over a salad.
Chia
These little black dots add texture and flavour to puddings, yogurt, cool drinks or can be used in baked goods as a vegan egg substitute. However you use them, the pack a huge nutrient punch. Not only do they contain a rich blend of fibre and minerals, they are a great plant-based source of Omega-3 fatty acids which are good for the brain.
Bananas
The ultimate easy post-yoga snack is also a great way to get a big dose of Vitamin B6, which is associated with mood. They are also rich in potassium, helping your body balance electrolytes after a workout to avoid a crash.
Legumes
Protein, fibre and nutrient-packed legumes like chickpeas, black beans, broad beans, kidney beans and so forth are one of the best value mood-enhancers imaginable. They add nutrients including iron, B vitamins and calcium to your diet and are hugely versatile. Whip up a bean dip to enjoy with crackers or crudites; make a bean salad by mixing your favourite varieties with diced onion, cucumber, lemon juice, salt, pepper and herbs; stir up a bowl of classic rice-n-beans or use them as a base for stews, casseroles or just about anything.
What are your go-to mood-boosting foods? Share in the comments!