Nourish Your Mood Part 2: Top Foods for Anxiety and Well-Being
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Continuing our exploration of foods that support mental health and well-being, let's delve into another selection of nutrient-rich ingredients that promote emotional balance and alleviate symptoms of anxiety and depression.
Cold-Pressed Extra Virgin Olive Oil: a cornerstone of the Mediterranean diet, boasts heart-healthy fats and potent anti-inflammatory properties. Abundant in polyphenols and healthy fats, this golden elixir nurtures brain health while curbing inflammation, fostering a brighter mood. Studies hint at olive oil's potential in lowering the risk of depression and elevating overall mood, making it a flavorful addition to any wellness regimen.
Extra Virgin Coconut Oil: With its medium-chain triglycerides (MCTs), coconut oil provides a quick source of energy for the brain and may help reduce symptoms of anxiety and depression. Incorporating coconut oil into your diet can support brain health and emotional well-being.
Broccoli and Broccoli Sprouts: These cruciferous vegetables are rich in sulforaphane, a potent antioxidant with neuroprotective properties. Broccoli sprouts, in particular, contain high levels of sulforaphane and may help improve mood and cognitive function.Broccoli and broccoli sprouts also support detoxification pathways in the brain, reducing oxidative stress, protects against DNA damage and improving mood.
Ginger: Known for its anti-inflammatory and digestive properties, ginger may help reduce symptoms of anxiety and depression by modulating neurotransmitter activity and promoting relaxation.
Raw Cacao: brimming with antioxidants and mood-boosting compounds like phenylethylamine (PEA), offers a delightful lift to spirits and stress reduction. By stimulating the release of endorphins, it fosters feelings of happiness and well-being, while its magnesium content addresses deficiencies often linked to anxiety. However, it's essential to note that for those sensitive to caffeine, raw cacao may have the opposite effect and potentially trigger anxiety.
Incorporating these nutrient-dense foods into your diet can nourish your body and support emotional well-being, paving the way for greater vitality and resilience in the face of stress and adversity.
Ready to nourish your mood and transform your well-being? As a holistic wellness practitioner, I offer personalized coaching and support to help you thrive in mind, body, and spirit. With the transformative benefits of holistic nutrition guidance and emotional regulation techniques, you can unlock your full potential and embrace a life of vitality and joy. Book your consultation today.
References:
Food Matters. (2016). How food affects your mood. Retrieved from https://www.foodmatters.com/article/how-food-affects-your-mood
Fowke, J. H., Chung, F. L., Jin, F., Qi, D., Cai, Q., Conaway, C., ... & Zheng, W. (2017). Urinary isothiocyanate levels, brassica, and human breast cancer. Cancer Research, 57(4), 498-500.
Sathyapalan, T., Beckett, S., Rigby, A. S., Mellor, D. D., Atkin, S. L., & High cocoa polyphenol rich chocolate may reduce the burden of the symptoms in chronic fatigue syndrome. (2019). Nutrition Journal, 18(1), 1-5.