Most people are aware of how the food we eat impacts our physical health and waistline, however fewer realize the impact nutrition has on our brain function and mental health.

Your brain requires fuel to function. The types of nutrition we supply our brain with has a direct impact on how well the brain functions and impacts our mood and mental health. When our diet is not optimal (e.g. rich in processed food, refined sugar, simple carbohydrates) it can promote inflammation and oxidative stress and worsen symptoms of depression and anxiety. Alternatively, symptoms of depression, anxiety, ADHD, insomnia, fatigue and even dementia, and brain fog can be positively impacted by lifestyle and dietary changes.

Small changes in our lifestyle can lead to big changes in our mood and overall wellbeing. Start by making small, manageable changes and pay attention to how what you eat makes you feel. A good place to start is decreasing consumption of foods that are known to cause inflammation such as processed foods and refined sugar and increase consumption of vegetables, clean protein and berries, nuts, and seeds.

Most people, at one point or another, struggle with mental health concerns. When you feel you have thoughts, emotions, or behaviors that are overwhelming and you struggle to manage, or are facing a life challenge that is painful, seeking mental health services can help you gain back a sense of control and significantly improve your overall well-being and functionality.