We all know the importance of a good and correct diet for our physical health. However, very few people understand the influence of diet on mental health, which is just as important. Next, it will be explained in detail how the type of diet impacts physical and mental health .
Influence of diet on physical health
From a young age, they teach us the importance of a balanced diet that includes all the food groups that are in the food pyramid. A balanced diet helps us prevent cardiovascular diseases. But in addition to this, it prevents chronic diseases and avoids being overweight.
One of the most important groups is that of fruits and vegetables. Both are an important source of antioxidants, helping to fight and neutralize free radicals. The consumption of fiber helps improve intestinal transit and vitamins and minerals strengthen the immune system.
Therefore, in order to receive all the nutrients and energy that our body needs, it is essential to vary the diet. Likewise, it is of great importance to limit the consumption of fats and sugars. Excessive consumption of these can lead to multiple health problems.
Influence of diet on mental health
For its part, the influence of diet on mental health is also quite marked. Various studies show that a diet rich in fruits and vegetables can help improve concentration in children. This can also improve the mental state of older people with depression .
The influence of diet on health can also be negative if the diet is deficient or is based on junk food, saturated fats and sugars. A relationship between depression and negative moods has been found with an unbalanced, low-nutrient diet.
Excess intake of saturated fat can influence the hypothalamus. This is the area of the brain where the sensation of hunger is regulated. Therefore, a person with the habit of eating foods with a high percentage of saturated fat may have difficulties regulating the amount of food they eat, favoring the development of obesity.
Tips and Recommendations
Many mental disorders are related to diet . Thus, when someone has anxiety or depression, they may have a loss of appetite, or on the contrary, eat food out of control. Although consuming certain foods or not doing it does not mean that we will develop a mental disorder, it does have a great influence.
That is why, to be physically, emotionally and mentally healthy, it is essential to eat a balanced diet. Remember to include the necessary proteins, fruits and vegetables, cereals and legumes in your diet. It also includes good fats that can be found in fish, nuts, or avocados. And finally, reduce the consumption of saturated fats and sugars.
It is also very important that you do not eat late, as this can have a negative effect on the biological cycle of the body. The influence of diet on mental and physical health is enormous , and therefore its importance for our integral well-being should not be forgotten.
