Not only is eating well good for your physical health, it is also good for your mental health. Since it was Mental Health Awareness Week this week I thought what a better time to put together a list of my top 5 brain power foods to keep your mind healthy and your mood happy.
Food plays an important role in contributing to our mental health, just like it does to our overall health. Some foods, like fast food for example, are good at tricking our brain and our mood is happy for a short period of time. There are, however, foods that can have a longer lasting impact on our mood and overall mental wellbeing by improving brain functionality.
The foods I mention below are rich in omega-3 fatty acids, folic acid, complex carbs and the amino acid tryptophan which help with the production of those brain chemicals responsible for your mood. Not only that, they also boost learning and memory, so you get smart too! And remember, drink tons of water while eating these foods too!
Eggs
Serotonin balances our brain and is responsible for how we’re feeling, it also balances our mood. Eggs (and lean protein) help keep those serotonin levels stable. So go make yourself an omelette and pack it with the foods listed below for extra happiness!
Walnuts
You may have heard people say nuts contain our good fats, these good fats are called essential fatty acids. They are essential because they are needed but are not made by bodies. Walnuts are rich in omega-3 and 6 fatty acids which are important for brain development. Crush walnuts over your cereal, toss in your salad or use them as a snack on the go.
Salmon
Salmon is a meaty fish for want of a better word, that is I would feel fuller eating salmon than I would after eating cod. It too is rich in omega 3 fatty acids which is essential for brain function but it is not made by our bodies, which means it must be obtained through diet. It is also a good source of protein and amino acids. Salmon is such an all-rounder, you can pair it with anything really. Rice, noodles, toss it through a salad – just make sure you eat lots of it!
Wholegrains
Wholegrains are a complex carb which release glucose slowly, leaving us fuller for longer, more satisfied. Wholegrains are also a great source of folic acid. If you are still eating white bread, rice and pasta, now might be a good time to switch to brown to help feel fuller for longer and happier!
Spinach
Known as a superfood, spinach, and indeed our other leafy greens and green veggies, is high in folic acid (among many other vitamins) which is crucial for brain function and our mental health. Studies have shown that folic acid may also help in preventing dementia and Alzheimer’s. Spinach is my favourite juice ingredient. Some of the best juices are packed full of leafy greens!