Mental Health, served on a spoon
You know my favorite topic of conversation is gut health (& let’s be honest…poop). But what you may not know is that your gut is intimately tied to your mental health! Inflammation, that starts in the gut, from poor diet or poor digestion, can absolutely affect your brain! There are lots of associations in my world that connect these two seemingly disparate organs. Some say your gut is your second brain, and it has long been said that all disease starts in the gut (thanks Hippocrates)! There’s lots of research about the gut-brain axis, the vagus nerve (that connects your brain and gut), and the microbiome that lives inside your gut. There is so much good sh*@% to share (no pun intended), it wouldn’t all fit in one blog post.
In honor of Mental Health Awareness Month, I want to make sure I share a short and sweet, but super helpful list of some foods to consider to improve your brain health (and your gut health)!
What you put on your fork (or spoon, or chopsticks, or just your hands) can make a big difference! Here is a list put together for you by my dear friend and favorite chef, Peggy Aud, with some helpful dietary additions and why:
Blueberries: Rich in antioxidants and phytonutrients, blueberries help improve memory and cognitive function.
Fatty Fish: High in omega-3 fatty acids, such as salmon and mackerel, which are essential for brain health.
Turmeric: Contains curcumin, which has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that can enhance brain function.
Broccoli: Packed with antioxidants and vitamin K, which are known to support brain health.
Pumpkin Seeds: Full of magnesium, iron, zinc, and copper, which are crucial for brain function and nerve signaling.
Oranges: High in vitamin C, which is key for preventing mental decline and supporting overall brain health.
Nuts: Especially walnuts, which are rich in antioxidants, healthy fats, and vitamin E, all of which support brain health.
Dark Chocolate: Contains flavonoids, caffeine, and antioxidants that can improve brain function and boost mood.
Green Tea: Loaded with caffeine and L-theanine, which improve brain function and provide a stable energy boost.
Eggs: An excellent source of choline, which is important for memory and cognitive function.
By incorporating these foods into your diet, you can enhance your mental acuity and support overall brain health.
