October is ‘Connecting Diet and Mood Month’

Magellan Health believes it is important to make informed food choices that support mental well-being. Below are some key insights into the relationship between food and mood which can aid in making better food choices:

• Mood-Boosting Meals: Incorporating a combination of complex carbohydrates, lean proteins and colorful produce into your diet can be a great way to enhance your mood. Whole foods like sweet potatoes, rolled oats, beans and quinoa are particularly beneficial as they help increase the production of serotonin, a feel-good chemical in the brain.
• Mediterranean-Style Diet: Research has shown that adopting a Mediterranean-style diet can help reduce symptoms of depression. This diet emphasizes increased consumption of vegetables, fruits, omega-3 fish, nuts, legumes and olive oil, all of which can contribute to better mental health.
• Avoid Low-Nutrition Foods: While foods with low nutritional value—such as refined flour-based items like bread, crackers, baked goods and cookies, as well as sugar-sweetened beverages—may supply a quick energy boost, they can lead to low energy levels and negatively affect your mood. It is important to be mindful of these choices.
• Patience is Key: If you decide to make dietary changes to improve your mood, it is essential to be patient. It can take two to three weeks to notice significant improvements in your mood and mental well-being.

Consider the information above when making your food choices.  Small changes in your diet can lead to significant improvements in your mood and mental clarity.

Live Webinar—Wednesday, Oct 11, on Leading an Anti-Inflammatory Lifestyle. Learn how your diet affects your mood and may cause inflammation in the body. Register here.