You’ve probably heard the old expression “you are what you eat.” And while we may understand in a basic sense what this means, the truth is that it holds much more truth than we think. What you eat has a significant impact on your overall well-being. Not only does food affect your physical health, but also your mental health.
Still not sold on whether the foods you eat can affect your overall well-being? Here are some of the ways what you eat directly affects your body and mind.
Memory
The connection between your diet and your memory is one that isn’t new. After all, your brain is like a motor. It needs to be fed with the right nutrients and vitamins in order to do its work. The more omega-3 fatty acids and vitamin B you include in your diet, the more you’ll nourish your brain. What you eat doesn’t just play a role in promoting cognitive function, either. What you eat, or don’t eat can actually prevent certain conditions from developing in the first place. There are studies that show certain foods put you at higher risk of developing dementia, for example.
Weight
It goes without saying that the types of foods you eat well play a direct role in your weight. Consuming plenty of foods that are natural and unprocessed will help you maintain a healthy weight and avoid obesity-related diseases like diabetes However, if you eat a diet that is high in sugars and saturated fats, then you’re probably going to find yourself at an unhealthy weight for your build.
Mood
There are certain foods that don’t just affect your mood, they can make you go downright crazy. For example, there are certain types of red dye that can leave people feeling agitated and even violent. The same goes for MSG. This potent preservative is incredibly toxic and has been shown to negatively impact mood regulation.
Heart Health
Your dietary choices play a crucial role in your heart’s overall health. For example, a diet high in saturated fats contributes to increased levels of cholesterol and can lead to an increased risk of heart attack. However, if you can avoid high-cholesterol foods full of unhealthy fats, and instead eat good fats through whole grains, fish, and nuts, you’ll significantly reduce your risk of heart problems and probably live a much longer life.
Digestive Health
Digestive issues are some of the biggest health concerns for people of all ages. The foods you consume and in which order are usually to blame. You want to make sure that you’re eating plenty of foods that are full of fiber and probiotics to promote optimal digestion. Otherwise, you could find yourself with frequent heartburn, and even constipation.