WELL-BEING
Vetlife’s Good Mood Food Shopping List Seafood Shellfish and molluscs provide selenium found in one study to produce men who are “clearheaded, confident, and composed” and oily fish provides omega-3 DHA which is associated with a decreased risk of dementia. Walnuts A handful a day could make those who indulge feel smarter, more alert, and more focused. Kale, Lettuce Magnesium benefits brain cell receptors and allows more blood & Spinach flow to the brain. Researchers observed that people who got the least folic acid were 67% more likely to suffer from depression than those who got the most (Journal of Nutrition 2003). Turkey Such a potent mood-buster it should be eaten all year round. Loaded with tryptophan which stimulates serotonin production and calms the brain and the protein helps keep you energetic and alert. Vitamin B12 protects against brain shrinkage linked with Alzheimer’s disease. Eggs Perlmutter encourages eating eggs for breakfast because they provide healthy saturated fat, a fundamental building block for brains and are a good for blood-sugar balance. Avocados Avocados are a rich source of brain supportive fat. Blueberries Low-sugar fruit such as lemons, limes and blueberries contain antioxidants which help cognitive function, including memory. Turmeric Turmeric is particularly beneficial because it contains curcumin which can boost memory and stimulate the growth of new brain cells. Variety of Ensuring you have variety in your diet will Vegetables help you to get all the nutrients you need. Peppers, cucumber, tomato, courgettes, squash, pumpkin and aubergine are good sources of antioxidants.
For more about wellbeing see www.vetlife.org.uk/wellbeing. VBF, the registered charity that supports the veterinary profession, offers free, confidential and professional support through the Veterinary Surgeons’ Health Support Programme to anyone in the profession who is struggling with depression. The National Co-ordinator of the programme can be contacted at VSHSP@vetlife.org.uk or 07946 634220.
www.practicelife.biz z June/July 2014 z Practice Life
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