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Psychological Benefits of Eating Healthy

The brain is a part of the body. Everything that makes up your nervous system comes from the nutrients that your digestive system processes. Particular vitamins, minerals and antioxidants are great for brain function, and have an impact on your mental health and mood.

  1. Cognition

    • A healthy diet helps improve brain function, memory and problem-solving abilities. Deficiencies in vitamins and minerals can actually damage the nerves and cause your mental functions to decay. Fortunately, diets full of antioxidant-rich foods can repair the damage caused by nutrient deficiency.

    Nutrients and Mood

    • There's a direct link to energy and mood. Individuals who do not eat enough nutrient-rich foods loaded with carbohydrates and proteins will start to feel laziness, lack of interest, hopelessness and depression. An inability to solve tasks due to insufficient nutrition can also lead to depression and discouragement. A lack of protein can make it difficult for the body to produce dopamine, which can diminish any feelings of well-being. Carbohydrates help with the production of serotonin, which can create a calming effect.

    Removing Harmful Products

    • The elimination of harmful foods and drinks can significantly benefit health. Fats reduce blood flow to the brain, slowing brain functioning. The consumption of alcohol wastes nutrients because the body must use nutrients to remove alcohol from the body.

    Vitamins and Mental Health

    • Many vitamins and minerals can prevent mental health problems. Thiamin helps prevent confusion and memory loss. Vitamin B-12 prevents brain atrophy and dementia. Niacin prevents memory loss and helps stabilize moods. Vitamin A and selenium help prevent irritability. Magnesium prevents delirium. Zinc prevents irritability and apathy.

    Brain Foods

    • Some foods are known for strengthening the brain. Wild salmon is the best source of Omega-3, a fatty acid that helps prevent depression, Alzheimer's disease and dementia. Green tea and blueberries are rich in antioxidants that repair the brain. Chocolate and coffee have also recently been found to be good for the brain.

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