The Food-Mood Connection
WE’re passionate about holistic health - mental, physical, and emotional. In honor of Mental Health Awareness Month, WE’re sharing some food for thought.
Trusting your gut is more than just listening to your intuition - your gut is also known as your “second brain” because of its close connection to the brain in your head. How does it all work? Your GI tract is home to billions of bacteria that influence the production of neurotransmitters that carry messages from your gut to your brain. Healthy, whole, nutrient-dense foods help produce “good” bacteria, which in turn produce a healthy batch of neurotransmitters. On the flip side, processed foods or those high in sugar have the reverse effect.
So what should you eat to help you feel better, both physically and emotionally?
Fuel up on fiber
Fiber is fantastic. Tons of plant-based food options are full of fiber, which helps your body absorb glucose at a steady pace so you avoid sugar rushes and crashes. Stock up on fruits, veggies, grains, and beans to fortify your fiber intake.
Keep it 100 with whole foods
Real, fresh, whole foods with no preservatives or additives are your best bet to keep your gut producing good bacteria. WE know it’s hard to resist those Doritos, but go for trusty fruits and veggies instead.
Amp up your antioxidant intake
Antioxidants are great at kicking inflammation. Get your fix of them in berries, chia seeds, turmeric, leafy greens, and salmon.
Get good vibes with vitamin D
The best source of vitamin D? The sun, of course! With spring in the air and summer on the way, slather on some SPF and get outside to soak it up. You can also get your fill of this serotonin-booster in mushrooms, especially reishi, cordycep and maitake.
Mind your muscles with magnesium
Magnesium is great in helping nerve and muscle function, and in keeping your heartbeat steady. A deficiency in magnesium can lead to depression and anxiety, so load up on magnesium-rich foods like bananas, almonds, cashews, spinach, and beans to keep your muscles and your mood in happy balance.
Our menu is full of mindfully-crafted, healthy, nutrient-dense foods made from the best ingredients for your body and mind. Find your favorite good-mood foods today!