Good nutrition is great self-care

Gut-healthy food

90% of our serotonin is stored in the gastrointestinal tract.

Photo: Vlad Chețan / Pexels.com

Your gut health has a surprisingly detrimental effect on your mental health as 90% of our serotonin is stored in the gastrointestinal tract.

Serotonin affects mood, appetite, memory, and sleep, and can help to keep viruses and harmful bacteria out.

When we’re stressed or eating badly, our digestive system may get inflamed and subsequently affect our serotonin and mood.

To keep your gut healthy eat a variety of natural foods, try to eat portions of gut-friendly foods like yoghurt, almonds, walnuts and pumpkin seeds and of course plenty of vegetables.

Gut-healthy food

90% of our serotonin is stored in the gastrointestinal tract.

Photo: Vlad Chețan / Pexels.com

Your gut health has a surprisingly detrimental effect on your mental health as 90% of our serotonin is stored in the gastrointestinal tract.

Serotonin affects mood, appetite, memory, and sleep, and can help to keep viruses and harmful bacteria out.

When we’re stressed or eating badly, our digestive system may get inflamed and subsequently affect our serotonin and mood.

To keep your gut healthy eat a variety of natural foods, try to eat portions of gut-friendly foods like yoghurt, almonds, walnuts and pumpkin seeds and of course plenty of vegetables.

Fruits and vegetables

Studies have shown that there is a clear correlation between eating fruits and vegetables and feeling positive and happy,

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ry to make sure that at least half of your plate is filled with them. Make sure you’re getting a rainbow of natural colours in order to reap more nutritional benefits.

Purple and blue foods like beetroot and aubergine can aid digestion, lower cholesterol, enhance your immune system and can fight inflammation.

Herbs and spices

They can help to lower blood sugar levels, improve brain function, lower cholesterol, and help the immune system.

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Not only does utilizing herbs and spices in your cooking add great flavour and depth to your meals, but they are also packed with malady-fighting vitamins and minerals.

In fact, many herbs and spices contain more antioxidants than vegetables!

Healthy fats

Omega 3 fatty acids are fantastic for our cognitive health, as well as strengthening bones and reducing inflammation

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While omega 6 can reduce the risk of heart disease by lowering our cholesterol levels.

Including both in our diets can be excellent for keeping us feeling our best self each day.

Wonderful sources of Omega 3 and 6 include avocadoes, olives, nuts and oily fish.

Carbs and protein

Carbohydrates and protein are broken down into glucose which is important in supplying the muscles and brain with energy.

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If we don’t eat enough of the right type of carbs, or eat them too irregularly, we may start feeling tired and unable to concentrate.

Eating lots of unrefined carbs like whole grains and fruits and vegetables can help us feel energized for longer, meaning we can do more of the things we want to do.

Sleep foods

Great sleep is an extremely important part of having a healthy and happy lifestyle

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There are a number of different teas that can also be utilised to support good sleep.

Chamomile tea has gentle sedative effects that can help to relax the muscles and induce sleep.

Lavender tea is also great for relaxing the body and mind, but can also help increase sleep quality and reduce symptoms of anxiety, which can be beneficial to those experiencing sleep issues.

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