Karthick Raja

You probably know that the food you eat affects your body. Many studies have shown the connection between your food choices and your overall health. Eating a nutritious diet helps you keep a healthy body weight and a healthy heart. It also helps reduce your risk of developing some chronic diseases. New research finds that your food choices may also affect your mood and mental health. This is sometimes called the “food-mood connection.” Path to improved health Studies about the “food-mood connection” have been limited and have shown mixed results. In some studies, people who don’t have a healthy diet were more likely to report symptoms of depression or other mental health issues. And there appears to be some association between certain nutrients in food and emotional wellbeing. These nutrients include omega-3 fatty acids, folic acid, vitamin D, magnesium, B vitamins, and tryptophan. These are all found in foods that are part of a healthy diet. If you want to choose nutrition that might support your mental health, focus on your overall dietary patterns. The 2015-2020 Dietary Guidelines for Americans, published by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services and the Department of Agriculture, say a healthy, balanced diet should include: Fruits and vegetables. Whole grains. Low-fat dairy. Lean protein. Limited amounts of sodium, saturated fat, and added sugar.