Food for thought

There’s a reason they call it ‘comfort food’ – who hasn’t reached for the bikkie tin when they’re feeling a little down or stressed?

But while it might make you feel better in the short term, what we choose to eat has a direct influence on our mood and quality of life.

“People who suffer from mental health conditions sometimes change their diet, which can lead to them maybe not consuming the most appropriate foods for their body and their health,” says Fuel Your Life Director of Dietetics Peta Cullis. “If you are looking to optimise and improve your mental health, you might want to take a step back and think about what you are and aren’t eating to influence that.”

Eating well can give you more energy, improve your concentration and help you sleep, which in turn can improve your mental health. So what should you eat to keep your mind and body healthy?

Peta says a diet rich in fruit, vegetables, legumes and wholegrains, some lean red meat and fish will not only keep you physically healthy, it may also help to lessen the symptoms of depression and anxiety.

“Omega 3 fatty acids also have a very positive effect on cognition, particularly ageing and brain function, as well as mitigating and improving feelings of low mood,” she says. “Fish, nuts, seeds and whole grains are proven to improve wellbeing as well.”

And she says foods that are high in sugar or contain artificial colours and other additives may also have a negative effect, as can alcohol.

Six quick tips for improving your diet

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