GOOD M OOD FOODS

EATING THE RIGHT FOODS CAN HAVE A HUGE IMPACT ON OUR EMOTIONAL HEALTH, THE EXPERTS EXPLAIN

TRY FERMENTED FOODS

Your digestive tract produces more than half of the body’s serotonin, which is our happy hormone, explains Gavin Aquilina from Vision Personal Training – who also has a Masters in Human Nutrition.

‘And a digestive tract that’s working well leads to better mental health,’ he says.

Gavin’s tips for incorporating gut-friendly fermented foods into your diet include: • Add half a tablespoon of kimchi to salads. • Start fermenting kefir and drinking the powerful liquid it produces. • Try drinking kombucha every day.

GO MEDITERRANEAN

If you want to reduce your risk of depression and anxiety, eat like the Mediterraneans do, says dietitian Vanessa Schuldt from Nutrition Speak.

‘Dietary patterns across the world which have plenty of fruit, vegetables, wholegrains, legumes, nuts, seeds and fish are protective of mental illness,’ she adds. ‘And make probiotics (as found in yoghurt and fermented foods) your new BFFS, as emerging research indicates these friendly gut bacteria have a positive effect on our mental health too.’

NOURISH YOUR NERVOUS SYSTEM

Some foods have added benefits when it comes to keeping the mind and adrenal glands healthy, says naturopath Jules Galloway.

‘Oats have long been known as a nervine tonic, working to soothe and calm the frazzled mind, while almonds contain high levels of magnesium, which may help to prevent mood swings and PMS,’ she explains.

So sprinkle a handful of almonds on your porridge for a stress-busting start to your day.