Nutrition and Mental Health
By Eric Mason
There is ever increasing evidence that links a healthy diet to psychological wellbeing. Recent research has found that a high-fat diet is linked to higher rates in anxiety and depression. What’s more, research indicates that unhealthy diets can lead to brain changes which may persist for months even after a healthy diet has been started.
Mental health professionals are advocating for diets low in sugars and fats as a cost-effective method for improving mental wellbeing, especially when it comes to treating anxiety and depression. In Bangkok, Thailand there is a wide variety of culinary options. Indeed, Thailand is well known for its diverse cuisine.
Although the Thai typical diet, is seemingly healthier than the average Western diet, there are many unhealthy options in Thai food, as well. In particular, desserts and drinks high which are very high in sugar are prevalent in Thailand. In addition, the consumption of fast food in Thailand has escalated dramatically, especially in urban areas, such as Bangkok. Indeed, obesity rates are on the rise in Thailand.
A study release December 2017 reports that children who consume more fruits and vegetables had better self-esteem and fewer psychological problems, regardless of socioeconomic background or body weight. The research points that emotions influence eating and vice versa. Therefore, parents who wish to have their children develop optimally, both physically and mentally, should keep in the mind the importance of healthy nutrition.
A diet high in lean protein, such as fish, appeared to impact mental health positively. It is assumed that omega-3 fatty acids play a major role in this develop.
People who have a predisposition for anxiety and depression or other mental health problems must consider healthy nutrition as part of plan to manage their mental health. In addition to other ways to improve mental health, such as adequate exercise, sleep, medications, avoiding drug and alcohol abuse, as well as seeing a counselor or mental health professional, and working on self-defeating thoughts, the importance of consuming healthy food is becoming more and more evident.
Indeed, improving mental health takes a multi-prong approach. More often than not, there is not one thing or magic bullet that will cure a mental health disorder. Rather than looking for a cure, people should think in terms of managing their mental health. If they learn how to manage their mental health appropriately, the disorder may eventually go into remission.
