Eating healthy is more than just about the food you put into your body. It's about showing yourself love and care. When we eat nutritious and wholesome foods, we are showing our body that we care about it. We are giving it the fuel it needs to thrive, to be energized, and to stay healthy. Our food choices can also have a significant impact on our mood and mental health.
It's important to understand the connection between the food you eat and your overall mood and well-being. The nutrients in the food we eat are the building blocks of our cells and play a crucial role in our body's functions. A diet that is high in processed foods, sugar, and unhealthy fats can lead to inflammation, gut dysbiosis, and a host of chronic diseases.
On the other hand, a diet that is rich in whole foods, fruits, and vegetables can reduce the risk of chronic disease, improve mood, and promote longevity. Studies have shown that diets high in fruits and vegetables are associated with a reduced risk of depression and anxiety, while diets high in processed foods and sugar are linked to an increased risk of depression and anxiety.
The food we eat is a reflection of how we feel about ourselves. When we prioritize our health and well-being, we naturally gravitate towards nourishing foods that support our body and mind. On the other hand, when we neglect our health and well-being, we may turn to junk food and unhealthy choices that may provide temporary satisfaction, but ultimately leave us feeling sluggish, tired, and unhappy.
It's important to remember that the food we eat has a direct impact on our mood. Studies have shown that a diet high in processed foods, sugar, and saturated fats can lead to an increased risk of depression, anxiety, and other mental health disorders. On the other hand, a diet rich in whole foods, fruits and vegetables, and healthy fats can help reduce the risk of these same mental health issues.
Eating healthy is also a form of self-love because it can help prevent chronic diseases such as heart disease, diabetes, and cancer. By choosing to eat a diet that is rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean protein, we are providing our body with the nutrients it needs to function optimally. Additionally, a healthy diet can help us maintain a healthy weight, improve our energy levels, and boost our immune system.
In addition to improving your mood and reducing the risk of chronic disease, eating a healthy diet can also improve your appearance. Consuming a diet high in antioxidants, such as those found in fruits and vegetables, can help to protect your skin from damage caused by free radicals and improve the overall appearance of your skin.
So, what does the food we eat say about us? It says that we care about ourselves and our well-being. It says that we are making a conscious effort to be the best version of ourselves. And it says that we understand the importance of taking care of our body and mind. Eating healthy is one of the highest forms of self-love. It not only nourishes our body and mind but also reflects how we feel about ourselves. It's never too late to start making healthier choices for yourself and your well-being.
So go ahead and make that choice today, show yourself some love, and choose to eat foods that support your health and happiness. If you feel like you’re struggling or just want some support, book your appointment with Amandala.Coach today!
Looking to find a community of like-minded individuals on your vegan, vegetarian, or raw food journey? Join ChicagoVeg and connect with others who share your values and passion for healthy living. Together, we can create a supportive community to help each other live happier, healthier lives.
References:
Jacka, F. N., O’Neil, A., Opie, R., Itsiopoulos, C., Cotton, S., Mohebbi, M., … Berk, M. (2017). A randomised controlled trial of dietary improvement for adults with major depression (the ‘SMILES’ trial). BMC Medicine, 15(1), 23. doi: 10.1186/s12916-017-0791-y
Opie, R. S., O'Neil, A., Jacka, F. N., Pizzinga, J., & Itsiopoulos, C. (2018). A modified Mediterranean dietary intervention for adults with major depression: Dietary protocol and feasibility data from the SMILES trial. Nutritional Neuroscience, 21(7), 487-501. doi: 10.1080/1028415x.2017.1411320
Grosso, G., Pajak, A., Marventano, S., Castellano, S., Galvano, F., & Bucolo, C. (2014). Role of omega-3 fatty acids in the treatment of depressive disorders: A comprehensive meta-analysis of randomized clinical trials. PLoS ONE, 9(5), e96905. doi: 10.1371/journal.pone.0096905
Zhang, Y., Liu, J., Yao, J., Ji, G., Qian, L., & Wang, J. (2019). Association between dietary patterns and depression in Chinese middle-aged and elderly population. Journal of Affective Disorders, 243, 516-522. doi: 10.1016/j.jad.2018.09.066
Bowe, W. P., & Logan, A. C. (2011). Acne vulgaris, probiotics and the gut-brain-skin axis: From anecdote to translational medicine. Beneficial Microbes, 2(2), 125-131. doi: 10.3920/bm2011.0027
Katta, R., & Desai, S. P. (2014). Diet and dermatology: The role of dietary intervention in skin disease. Journal of Clinical and Aesthetic Dermatology, 7(7)