More than 2 out of 3 Belgians (67%) actively watch what they eat to promote physical health. In the same study commissioned by HelloFresh, more than half (53%) also sometimes notice that food influences how people feel mentally.
«It is positive to observe that (already) a small majority of Belgians are aware of the influence of nutrition on mental well-being, a nice development. What’s more: after explaining the positive influence of food on mental health, about 3 out of 4 Belgians (75%) indicate that they find it important to feel better mentally through nutritious food,” says Dafna, nutritionist and dietician at the meal box supplier. “Although we see that a large group indicates, more than 1 in 3 (35%), that they are not aware of which food should best be consumed in order to take mental well-being into account.”
What mental benefits do Belgians wish to derive from food?
Mental benefits that Belgians mainly want to get from food are increased energy levels (52%), better concentration (40%), improved mood and emotional well-being (38%) and less stress (35%). “Belgians (61%) indicate that they want to know more about the relationship between nutrition and our mental health.
The ingredients for a healthy mind
The majority (59%) unanimously agree that fruits and vegetables are most associated with mental well-being. Dafna: “Consumption of fruits and vegetables certainly has a positive effect on how we feel mentally, but our research also shows that other important ingredients are still quite undervalued.”
«However, it is also important to know that it is difficult to link specific nutrients directly to mental health. What is known is that a nutritious diet contributes to a ‘happy mind’ and even reduces the risk of depression. A varied and fiber-rich diet is important. This consists of lots of fruit and vegetables, whole grains and legumes, good fats (olive oil, nuts/seeds, oily fish), not too much meat and regular fish.”
How many Belgians associate the following food categories with healthy well-being?
1. Fruits and vegetables – 59% of Belgians
2. Oily fish such as salmon, mackerel, sardines, etc. – 27% of Belgians
3. Nuts and seeds – 26% of Belgians
4. Whole grain products – 23% of Belgians
5. Ingredients rich in antioxidants (colored fruits and vegetables) – 23% of Belgians
6. Protein-rich food (animal and vegetable) – 16% of Belgians
7. Fermented food such as yogurt, sauerkraut, etc. – 8% of Belgians
«Although half of the Belgians (51%) indicate in our survey that they are well aware of which type of food benefits mental health, we can conclude from the above list that there is still some work to be done in terms of knowledge,” explains Dafna.
«For example, you get fiber not only from fruit and vegetables, but also from whole grain products, legumes, nuts and seeds. Fibers ensure a healthy intestinal flora, which then ensures, among other things, a good production of the hormone serotonin, also known as the happiness hormone. This hormone is transported from the intestines to the brain and thus influences our feelings of happiness and helps you to be more resistant to stress. But fermented foods, such as yoghurt and sauerkraut, are also building blocks for a happy mind. These products provide you with beneficial intestinal bacteria, which also promote a healthy intestinal flora.
«Then oily fish such as salmon provide the Omega 3 fatty acids that enable nerve cells to communicate well and quickly with each other. This ensures better concentration and a good memory,” continues Dafna. “Also, products rich in antioxidants, such as colored fruits and vegetables, protect your brain against free radicals and promote the flow of oxygen to your brain.”
«Finally, you also have protein-rich food, such as meat, fish, nuts and seeds, etc. The amino acids in proteins seem to help us feel mentally balanced. An example of one of the amino acids is tryptophan, which our body cannot produce itself and we can only absorb through food. Tryptophan may have a positive impact on our sleep quality, emotions and self-confidence.”
Bottom Line: The effect of a completely healthy diet, rich in vegetables, fruits, healthy grains, legumes, nuts, seeds, oily fish and olive oil, is the best medicine for mental fitness and health.
2023-08-05 06:10:24
#food #boosts #mental #health #Metrotime
