How Diet Affects Mental Health?

Just like physical health, robust mental health is crucial to lead a balanced and happy life. A lot often people disregard their mental health, owing to various reasons including stigmatisation, ignorance, and lack of pertinent medical facilities. Depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia etc. are some of the most common mental health issues. They acutely affect an individual regardless of his race, gender, sexual orientation, or ethnicity. Mental disorders may also be a result of the interaction of neurological disorders with certain psychological and social factors. More clarity can be gained on this by visiting a specialist at one of the best neurology hospitals around you.

According to the studies, India is one of the most depressed countries in the world. As per one of the latest reports by WHO, around 6.5 per cent of the Indians (irrespective of their rural-urban dwelling) suffer from serious mental health issues. The figures are horrifying. Therefore, it becomes all the more important to find a solution to this pressing problem. While treatment options are available, taking care of your own mental health is also of great importance.

A proper diet complements your mental health too

There is no denying the fact that a healthy diet is necessary to ensure the proper functioning of the body. But does the same apply to mental health as well? Let’s discover:

According to a recent study, consumption of fruits and vegetables can greatly enhance your mood. People who eat processed foods like refined sugars are at greater risk of mental health disorders. On the other hand, people who tend to eat whole foods like fruits and vegetables are less likely to suffer from the pangs of depression and anxiety.

Understanding how diet affects mental health

To completely understand the effects of simple sugars and complex carbohydrates, it is important to know how they function in your body.

Simple sugars are absorbed by the body really quickly but if you are not indulging in any physical activity, you won’t be able to burn the sugar which, in turn, secretes insulin. As a result, your blood sugar level goes down which leaves you feeling hungry and tired. On the other hand, complex carbohydrates which are present in fruits and vegetables consist of soluble and insoluble fibers. Since they have a complex structure, they don’t break down immediately. As a consequence, your blood sugar levels do not get affected immediately.

However, some people are of the view that consumption of fruits and vegetables isn’t directly related to mental health. Well, there is a possibility that it might be true. That’s why it becomes imperative to consult your doctor for the same. Meanwhile, you can switch to healthy food options rather than the unhealthy ones.

In case you think you might be suffering from a neurological disorder, you need to visit one of the best neuro hospitals in India to know more about your ailment and seek proper treatment.

All in all, mental health is in no way less important than your physical health. So it’s high time you book an appointment at the hospital for mental health to achieve the much-needed health balance.