Apart from indulging in sweets during bouts of depression, enhancing dietary choices can also contribute positively to mental health without imposing undue stress on the body.
New York, NY (Business Northeast) – Over the past few years, there has been a clear escalation in global attention towards mental health issues, particularly with disorders like depression gaining traction as substantial global health challenges. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), over 350 million people worldwide suffer from depression, with anxiety disorders affecting billions. In such circumstances, individuals often turn to food to alleviate negative emotions, with sweets being commonly perceived as a way to soothe mood.
Due to its impact on dopamine levels in the brain, consuming sweets can induce feelings of improved mood. Dopamine, known as the “happy hormone,” can elevate one’s mood. When sweets are finished, the taste buds in the mouth detect sweetness, stimulating the secretion of dopamine in the brain and leading to feelings of happiness and pleasure, which is why many individuals opt for sweets when feeling down.
However, prolonged consumption of high-sugar sweets may have adverse effects on physical health, such as increasing the risk of obesity, blood sugar fluctuations, and diabetes. Therefore, experts suggest that healthier, psychologically beneficial food choices may be wiser when feeling emotionally distressed.
Improving dietary habits has a positive impact on mental health. Some studies suggest that consuming foods rich in Omega-3 fatty acids and tryptophan, such as salmon, nuts, and eggs, can help improve emotional stability. Additionally, foods rich in magnesium, vitamin B, and antioxidants, such as spinach, whole grains, fruits, and vegetables, are also believed to be beneficial for mental health.
The following are recommended healthy dietary options for consumption during low moods:
● Salmon: Rich in omega-3 fatty acids, beneficial for brain health and emotional stability.
● Nuts: Like walnuts, almonds, containing abundant magnesium and tryptophan, can help relax the nervous system, alleviate anxiety and stress, and promote emotional relief.
● Leafy green vegetables: Like spinach and kale, they are rich in vitamin B and antioxidants, which help protect nerve cells and promote mental health.
● Whole grain foods: Such as oats and brown rice, rich in vitamin B and fibre, contribute to emotional stability.
Although sweets may offer temporary relief, excessive reliance on them may lead to health issues like obesity, diabetes, and cardiovascular diseases. For individuals experiencing frequent anxiety or depression, adopting healthier dietary habits may aid in emotional improvement.
Furthermore, regular exercise releases neurotransmitters like dopamine and endorphins, promoting emotional stability and positive psychological states. Therefore, instead of continuously indulging in sweets during moments of emotional distress, try incorporating more green vegetables or nutritionally rich foods into your plate, uplifting your mood and benefiting overall health.
