"Your are what you eat."
We have all heard that phrase before, but not many know that it originally appeared in 1826 when Jean Anthelme Brillat-Savarin, a French lawyer, politician, and famous gastronome, wrote ''Dis-moi ce que tu manges, je te dirai ce que tu es'', which translates to 'Tell me what you eat and I will tell you what you are'.
So what is the connection of our food and our mind? Below we will take a brief look.
Mind and Body Connection
People often view the mind and body as separate, but in reality, they are deeply interconnected. Your diet doesn’t just influence your physical health; it plays a crucial role in your mental well-being too.
Food, Mood, and Brain Health
Dr. Drew Ramsey, a Nutritional Psychiatrist from Columbia University, emphasizes the importance of a nutrient-rich diet for mental health. His research shows that such diets can decrease depression rates and aid in treating those already affected.
Diet and Depression
Clinical psychologist Dr. Michael Friedman also highlights the link between diet and depression. He argues that poor nutrition can trigger depression and suggests that diet should be considered before turning to medication or therapy.
The Impact of Food Insecurity
Lack of access to nutritious food is linked to mood and anxiety disorders. Conversely, diets like the Mediterranean or whole foods diets can protect against depression. For example, a study of over 10,000 university students found a 42% reduced risk of depression in those following a Mediterranean diet.
Healthy Eating Habits
Skipping meals, relying on coffee, and binge eating at night are habits that can negatively impact mental health. Research indicates that a whole-food, plant-based diet lowers depression rates. On the flip side, diets high in refined carbs, sugars, and processed foods increase depression risk.
Essential Brain Nutrients
Dr. Ramsey identifies key nutrients vital for brain health:
- Omega-3 Fatty Acids
- Magnesium
- Calcium
- Fiber
- B Vitamins (Thiamine, Folate, B12)
- Vitamins D and E
Embracing a nutrient-rich diet can significantly boost both your physical and mental health. So, next time you plan a meal, remember that what you eat feeds your body and your mind!
