As your dedicated online fitness coach from Aamir Fitness, today, we are going to delve into a crucial health topic of the profound connections between food and mood. While we all know how important a healthy diet is for our physical well-being, did you know it can have a huge impact on our mental health? Food really is fuel for our bodies, regulating brain function, mood and overall mental well-being. Let’s explore the science behind how what you eat can make you happier and healthier.
The Gut Brain Connection-The Second Brain
The relationship between your diet and mental health is a fascinating and complex area to study. At the heart of this connection is the gut microbiome – a system of microorganisms in a person’s gastrointestinal system which includes fungi and bacteria. This microbiome plays a massive role in your digestive system as well as communication with your brain, impacting your mood. Many researchers have discovered a direct link between gut health and mental health.
Your gut microbiome affects serotonin and dopamine through neurotransmitters, which are vital for controlling your mood. Over 90% of serotonin, often called the “happy hormone,” is produced in the gut.Therefore, having a huge contribution to our mental health. For example, people with IBS often experience depression, due to the high stress levels.
Food is Fuel
Now we understand the connection between the gut and the brain, let’s look at key nutrients to benefit our mental well being:
- Omega-3 Fatty Acids : These essential fats found in fatty fish are crucial for brain function and development. Researchers have shown that the anti-inflammatory properties help reduce depression and anxiety.
- Probiotics: Bacteria found in fermented food such as kefir,yogurt to improve the “good” bacteria in the body.
- B vitamins: These vitamins play a crucial role in mood regulation and regulate neurotransmitters, affecting not only mood but energy levels.
- Amino Acids : These are the building blocks of proteins and are essential for neurotransmitter production; to help break down food
Dietary Patterns
Now let’s look at how food choices can impact our mood. While nutrients and vitamins play a significant role in our mental health, it’s important to remember that a balanced healthy diet is the foundation to optimise your well being.
While some foods are rich in nutrients and can boost your mood, others can have a negative impact:
- High sugar foods can cause high spikes and drops in blood sugar levels, impacting your mood and energy levels.
- Processed foods contain high fat, sugar and additives can lead to inflammation and deficiency in nutrients, affecting mental clarity and overall well-being.
- Alcohol: While enjoyable in moderation, an excessive amount of alcohol can interfere with sleep and increase anxiety levels
As your online fitness coach I advocate for moderation with consumption, not deprivation. A healthy diet for me, is about balance – enjoy the occasional meal out and treats while majority of the time focusing on nutrient-dense foods.
Some would argue that certain diets are beneficial to support mental health and overall well being
- Plant-based diet, rich in fibre, fruits, vegetables and wholegrains positively contribute to a balance gut, leading to a improved mood and reduced anxiety
- Mediterranean Diet, rich in fatty fish, olive oil, nut is associated with a lower risk of anxiety and depression. This diet encourages mindful eating, which fosters a low stress environment beneficial for overall well being.
As an online fitness coach I am not advertising you to take on a certain diet, but to implement some of these ideas to ensure you’re getting a wide range of nutrients to not only promote physical health, but contribute to a happier you.
If you’re looking for additional guidance on creating a personalised meal plan that incorporates elements of both the plant-based and Mediterranean diets, feel free to reach out!
Overall Holistic Approach
While a healthy diet is definitely important to promote well-being, it’s important to incorporate other elements to have a more well rounded, resilient brain. Techniques such as mindfulness and meditation can combine goals such as increasing activity levels and enhancing mental well-being.
Incorporating regular exercise into your daily routine which I can provide through my programming can not only keep you fit but boost your mood and energy levels through releasing endorphins.
Don’t underestimate the power of a consistent sleep schedule. Aiming for 7-8 hours of quality sleep each night is recommended as necessary for improving brain function. Sleep deprivation has a huge impact on your mood and negatively affects your mental well-being, while increasing cravings for unhealthy foods.
Building Resilience with an Online Fitness Coach
- Social connections: Having strong relationships and social connections is vital of our emotional wellbeing, while reducing loneliness and depression. Whether that is going for a walk with a friend or going for a coffee can help manage stress levels.
- Managing stress: Implementing activities and techniques such as yoga, sports can help us manage stress effectively.
- Stable Blood Sugar: Spikes in blood sugar levels can lead to mood swings, leading to high stress levels. By incorporating whole, unprocessed foods such as elements of the plant based and mediterranean diet can regulate these blood levels.
Hydration is key! Especially during the summer months and highly active workouts. Water regulates your body temperature and supports bodily functions such as the brain.
While it’s important to eat healthy for fueling our bodies and mind. Moderation is key! Having a balanced diet and letting yourself have your cravings is needed to be sustainable in your fitness journey and I am here as your online fitness coach, every step of the way!
Remember your online fitness coach is just a click away to assist you in all aspects of your fitness journey.