Have you ever noticed that when you eat a healthy, balanced meal, you feel energized throughout your day, but a heavy, greasy meal leaves you tired and irritated? Do you wonder why is that?

It happens because your body and mind need vital nutrients to function at their best. Healthy food items provide you with them. To stay happy and energized all day, eat foods rich in fiber, antioxidants, folate, vitamin D, and magnesium.

However, not many people notice such things and keep eating junk food that is high in sugar and salt, which causes them to gain weight, affects their energy levels, and impacts their mental health.

If you feel less energized throughout your day or have mental health problems, read this blog by one of the best Punjabi restaurants in Surrey to determine the connection between your food and your brain.

The Link Between Nutrition and Mental Health

Most people know how food affects their physical health, but not everyone realizes how much it impacts their mental well-being. Like the rest of the body, the brain needs proper nutrients for efficient functioning. It releases special chemicals that control our mood and healthy foods help the brain with this.

Some healthy foods are also proven to help reduce swelling in the brain, which can lower the risk of anxiety and depression. However, eating unhealthy foods that are high in sugar and salt can disrupt its functioning and cause mood swings, tiredness, and stress. In short, our stomach and brain are connected.

To keep the brain healthy and boost mental fitness, one must eat a balanced diet that provides all the important nutrients. The foods you must add to your diet to keep your brain healthy include yogurt, kimchi, fish, vegetables, and whole grains.

Also Read: How Do Packed Lunch Services Support Your Diet?

Key Nutrients Required for Mental Fitness and Their Sources

Now that you know about the impact of healthy food on your mental health, you must be eager to add nutritious food items to your diet to keep your brain healthy. Go through the below points to learn about the key nutrients your brain requires to function healthily and modify your diet accordingly:

1. Fiber

Source: Beans, Bananas, Apples

2. Antioxidants

Source: Berries, Oranges, Nuts

3. Vitamin D

Source: Salmon, Milk, Cheese

4. Magnesium

Source: Nuts, Seeds, Dark Chocolate

5. Protein & Amino Acids

Source: Eggs, Beans, Meat

6. Iron

Source: Spinach, Lentils, Red Meat

7. Zinc

Source: Pumpkin seeds, Nuts, Dairy

Foods to Avoid for Better Mental Health

Though it’s important to know what to eat for optimal brain health, what’s more important is knowing about the foods you should avoid eating for better mental health. Here is the list of foods that you should avoid at any cost to keep your brain functioning efficiently:

• Alcohol
• Caffeine
• Fried Foods
• Processed Foods
• Sugary Foods and Drinks

If you don’t eat or drink the above foods, you’re making the right choices. However, those who are addicted to unhealthy food items should consider cutting them off their diet. Try cutting junk food items gradually if it is difficult to cut them off suddenly.

On the Final Note

People who don’t have enough time to cook healthy food often rely on junk food for survival. These unhealthy foods are high in sugar and salt, which can make people less energized and more prone to mental health problems. To keep yourself physically and mentally fit, eat healthy food rich in essential nutrients and avoid unhealthy foods. However, if you can’t cook healthy food daily, consider Ashfoods' fresh and tasty tiffin service. Once you opt for this service, you will get nutritious food cooked using authentic Indian spices at your doorstep regularly.