ISSUE 3 JUNE 2021
Fermented foods Fermented foods like unsweetened yoghurts, pickled foods and drinks like kombucha and sauerkraut are thought to affect the same parts of your brain as some anti-depressants do. Eating more of them can help with feelings related to anxiety and depression. The good bacteria in fermented foods directly influences our mood and emotions. Heaps of research links gut health to mental health, and the probiotics and prebiotics in fermented foods actively affect the environment of our tummies. Just be sure to avoid fermented foods with lots of added sugar. Fish Oily fish like salmon and prawns contain a special fatty acid known as DHA which is an awesome ‘brain food’! It helps with memory, and can boost your mood and reduce anxiety. Fish also contains omega 3 acids which are great for brain function, and help circulate serotonin and dopamine – feelgood chemicals – around your body. By fitting more fish into your diet, you will be helping to improve feelings of depression while boosting your memory ability. Tinned fish can be cheaper and easier to buy, and can still have the same great effect on your mental health. Water One final important nutrient for your brain is water. It makes up the majority of your brain mass. Even mild dehydration can lead to mental health symptoms, such as irritability and loss of concentration.
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