Food and Mood: How Diet Influences Mental Well-being

Food and Mental Wellbeing

The connection between what we consume and our mental state is more intertwined than one might think. While navigating life's challenges, maintaining a balanced diet can sometimes take a backseat. Here, we explore the relationship between food and our mental health.

Understanding Food's Impact on Mood

Everyone's body reacts differently to various foods, but there are some general guidelines that can help maintain a positive mood :

Blood Sugar Levels : Consistent blood sugar levels can prevent feelings of fatigue or irritability. Opt for foods like wholegrain bread, nuts, and brown rice to achieve this balance.
Hydration : Adequate fluid intake is essential for cognitive function. While water, tea, and smoothies are beneficial, it's wise to monitor caffeine and sugar intake.
Fruits & Vegetables : These provide essential nutrients that support both mental and physical health. Remember, frozen or tinned options are just as nutritious.
Protein's Role : Sources like eggs, fish, and legumes are crucial for brain function, aiding in regulating our emotions and thoughts.
Caffeine Consideration : While many enjoy their daily coffee or tea, it's essential to be mindful of excessive caffeine, which can lead to restlessness.
Beneficial Fats : Foods rich in omega-3 and omega-6, like avocados and oily fish, support brain health.
Gut Health : Our digestive system can reflect our emotional state. Consuming wholegrains and probiotics can promote a healthy gut.

Interactions Between Food and Medication

Certain foods might interact with medications. It's always recommended to consult with a healthcare professional if you have concerns.

Managing Diet During Challenging Times

When facing mental health hurdles, even basic meal preparation can seem daunting. Here are some strategies to help :

Maintain a Food Journal : Documenting your meals and associated feelings can provide insights into dietary impacts on mood.
Prepare in Advance : When you're feeling up to it, consider preparing extra meals to store for more challenging days.
Accept Assistance : If someone offers support, whether it's grocery shopping or cooking, it's okay to accept.
Simplify Meal Prep : Utilising pre-chopped ingredients or one-pot recipes can reduce the effort required in the kitchen.

Weight and Mental Wellbeing

Our weight and mental wellbeing are delicately interconnected, influencing each other in profound ways. It's essential to approach weight management with a compassionate mindset, recognising that every person’s body is unique and deserving of respect.

Adopting a healthy, balanced diet and regular physical activity are foundational steps in maintaining a healthy weight. However, it’s equally important to cultivate a positive relationship with food and exercise, viewing them as sources of nourishment and strength rather than as means to an end. Striving for weight goals should always be motivated by self-care, not self-criticism.

Calculate Your Adult Body Mass Index (BMI)

This service allows you to:

Determine the BMI for individuals aged 18 and older
Receive guidance on subsequent steps based on your BMI

Who Is Advised Against Using This Calculator

Avoid using this calculator for individuals who:

Are below 18 years of age
Are expecting
Have been diagnosed with or suspect they might have an eating disorder
Have a health condition that influences their height
Preparation for Use

To use this calculator effectively, you'll need your:

Date of Birth (to check your over 18)
Height
Weight

Interpreting Your Results

Your BMI will be indicated as a numeric value falling into one of the following categories:

Underweight
Healthy weight
Overweight
Obese

Understanding Your BMI Outcome

A higher BMI is linked to an increased likelihood of chronic health issues, including type 2 diabetes and heart disease. However, BMI alone is not a comprehensive health indicator, as it does not differentiate between muscle mass and fat.

For instance, a muscular build might result in an overweight or obese classification despite minimal body fat. This highlights why waist measurement can often provide a fuller picture of your health status.

What is your Date of Birth?

What is your Height?

What is your Weight?

Try Something New

Omega Boost Salmon Salad

Ingredients : Grilled salmon fillet, mixed salad greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, avocado slices, chia seeds, and a lemon-honey dressing.

How to Cook It : Grill the salmon fillet until it is cooked through and flakes easily. In a large bowl, mix the salad greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and avocado slices. Top with the grilled salmon and sprinkle with chia seeds. Drizzle with lemon-honey dressing before serving.

Benefits : Salmon is rich in omega-3 fatty acids, which are great for brain health. The chia seeds add an extra boost of these beneficial fats.

Wholesome Wholegrain Risotto

Ingredients : Brown rice, vegetable broth, sautéed mushrooms, spinach, garlic, onions, olive oil, parmesan cheese, and fresh herbs.

How to Cook It : In a large pan, heat the olive oil and sauté onions and garlic until translucent. Add the brown rice and a ladle of vegetable broth, stirring until absorbed. Continue adding broth gradually until the rice is tender. Stir in sautéed mushrooms, spinach, and fresh herbs. Finish with grated parmesan cheese.

Benefits : Brown rice provides steady energy release, while mushrooms and spinach offer essential minerals and vitamins.

Protein-Packed Lentil Soup

Ingredients : Green lentils, diced tomatoes, carrots, celery, onions, garlic, vegetable broth, olive oil, and a blend of herbs and spices.

How to Cook It : In a large pot, heat olive oil and sauté onions, garlic, carrots, and celery until soft. Add green lentils, diced tomatoes, and vegetable broth. Bring to a boil, then simmer until lentils are tender. Season with herbs and spices.

Benefits : Lentils are an excellent source of protein and fibre, supporting both digestion and sustained energy levels.

Berry Bliss Smoothie

Ingredients : Blueberries, strawberries, Greek yoghurt, almond milk, a spoonful of honey, and a sprinkle of flaxseeds.

How to Cook It : Combine blueberries, strawberries, Greek yoghurt, almond milk, and honey in a blender. Blend until smooth. Pour into a glass and sprinkle with flaxseeds before serving.

Benefits : Berries are packed with antioxidants, and Greek yoghurt provides probiotics for gut health. Flaxseeds add a dose of omega-3s.

Nutty Quinoa Salad

Ingredients : Cooked quinoa, roasted almonds, dried cranberries, feta cheese, mixed greens, and a balsamic vinaigrette dressing.

How to Cook It : In a large bowl, mix cooked quinoa with roasted almonds, dried cranberries, and feta cheese. Add mixed greens and toss with balsamic vinaigrette dressing before serving.

Benefits : Quinoa is a complete protein, and almonds provide both protein and healthy fats. Cranberries add a touch of sweetness and antioxidants.

Golden Turmeric Chickpea Stew

Ingredients : 2 tablespoons olive oil, 1 large onion (chopped), 2 cloves garlic (minced), 1 tablespoon grated ginger, 1 teaspoon turmeric, 1 teaspoon cumin, 1 can (400g) chickpeas (drained), 1 can (400g) diced tomatoes, 500ml vegetable broth, 1 cup spinach, salt and pepper to taste, fresh coriander (for garnish).

How to Cook It : In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the onion, garlic, and ginger, cooking until softened. Stir in the turmeric and cumin, cooking for another minute. Add the chickpeas, tomatoes, and broth. Bring to a boil, then simmer for 20 minutes. Stir in the spinach until wilted. Season with salt and pepper. Garnish with fresh coriander before serving.

Benefits : This stew is a powerhouse of anti-inflammatory properties thanks to turmeric and ginger. Chickpeas provide a good source of protein and fibre, promoting digestive health and keeping you full longer.

Sunrise Sweet Potato Hash

Ingredients : 2 large sweet potatoes (peeled and diced), 1 red bell pepper (diced), 1 green bell pepper (diced), 1 onion (diced), 2 cloves garlic (minced), 4 eggs, 2 tablespoons olive oil, salt and pepper to taste, fresh parsley (for garnish).

How to Cook It : In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the sweet potatoes, bell peppers, onion, and garlic. Cook until the sweet potatoes are tender. Create four wells in the hash and crack an egg into each. Cover and cook until the eggs are set. Season with salt and pepper. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

Benefits : Sweet potatoes are high in vitamins A and C, supporting immune health. Eggs provide high-quality protein and healthy fats, making this a balanced meal to start your day.

Green Goddess Avocado Soup

Ingredients : 2 ripe avocados, 1 cucumber (peeled and diced), 1 garlic clove, 2 tablespoons lime juice, 500ml vegetable broth, salt and pepper to taste, fresh herbs (such as cilantro or parsley), and pumpkin seeds (for garnish).

How to Cook It : Blend the avocados, cucumber, garlic, lime juice, and vegetable broth until smooth. Season with salt and pepper. Chill in the refrigerator for at least an hour. Serve cold, garnished with fresh herbs and pumpkin seeds.

Benefits : Avocados are rich in healthy fats, fibre, and vitamins E and K, promoting heart health and skin health. The soup is refreshing and perfect for warm days, with hydration from the cucumber and a boost of flavor from fresh herbs.