Taking the right food and herbs will not only to improve your physical conditioning, but brain power and mental health as well.
Inexpensive changes in your regimen can uplift cognitive functions, and possibly lessen signs of stress, depression and other psychological maladies. Experts recommend the inclusion of certain foods and herbs for mental health in your everyday diet and routine.
Here are some of the most widely-used:
Foods
Lean Protein
Lean protein is one of the richest substances for the human body next to carbohydrates. Protein’s building block is an amino acid known as Tryptophan that affects mood by generating Serotonin.
As a neurotransmitter (brain chemical), it transmits information all over the body and brain. Serotonin is said to help neutralize depression. Sources of lean protein are chicken, turkey, fish, beans, and eggs.
More Information: Hemp Protein Benefits
Fatty Fish
Fatty Fish is important because of Omega-3 Fatty acids that counter saturated fats unfavorable to the brain. Omega-3 acids (for example, fish oil supplements) can be derived from cold-water fish like mackerel, salmon and herring; seaweeds; and chicken fed with walnuts and flax seed.
Fatty acids were found to deal with symptoms of Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder, schizophrenia, and depression. It is also capable of reinforcing memory and the learning process.
Read More: Health Benefits of Eating Salmon
Leafy Green Vegetables
Leafy Green Vegetables have a lot of Folic Acid and Vitamin B. Folate deficiency can lead to tiredness, insomnia, and sadness. Recommended vegetables are broccoli, romaine lettuce, spinach, mustard, and turnips.
Broccoli also contains a trace mineral known as selenium that’s good for the immune system, hormone metabolism (thyroids), and reproduction.
Whole grains, wheat, barley, soy beans, and rice are sources of complex carbohydrates which produce glucose for the brain. This serves as stable source of wholesome food for the brain.
See Also: Benefits of Kale and Spinach
Herbs for Mental Wellness
There are countless healthy herbs for enhancement of mental health that you can buy over the counter. Some of the more popular ones are the following:
Gingko Biloba which is cited for benefits such as the capacity for improving blood movement to your eyes particularly for persons afflicted with macular degeneration. It is also helpful to the ears and prevents inner ear ailments as well as tinnitus.
Passion Flower is the traditional herbal tranquilizer that induces restful sleep and alleviates anxiety.
Saffron is not only coloring for food or flavor enhancer. It is well-known for contributing to balanced disposition, soothing and relief for stress.
Additional Reading: Diet & Mental Health
Diet and Therapy
Nourishment is one of the factors that contribute to sound mental fitness. Yet, it is not the entire piece. Dietary adjustments alone should not take the place of other forms of therapies.
People who experience some form of mental issues must find time to see a doctor or therapist. Even then, we all need to be careful with what we eat every day.
Avoid processed and junk foods. Instead, consume plenty of fruits, vegetables, low-fat dairy products, and lean meat.
Drink a lot of water regularly.
Keep in mind that nutrition will not only affect your well-being but that of the kids and grandchildren as well.
See Also: LGBT Mental Health Issues
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