We’ve all gone through life hearing about the importance of having a healthy diet. But does everyone take these words seriously?
One of the main reasons why we should maintain a healthy diet is because it’s important to ensure that our bodies are receiving the right amount of nutrients that help with daily functions. But not only does a healthy diet have physical benefits, but there are also plenty of benefits that can positively affect you mentally.
As a leading brain treatment center in Dubai, we’ve studied the effects of diet on physical and emotional wellbeing. Of course, maintaining a healthy diet is easier said than done. If you’re used to binge-eating junk food in one sitting, it may not be so easy to transition into healthier eating habits – but it’s time to realize the importance and significance of healthy diets.
Increases Energy Levels and Boosts Moods
A healthy diet is known to help keep energy levels high. Food rich in iron, unrefined carbohydrates, proteins and fats can help increase energy levels as well as stabilize moods. It is well-known that iron deficiencies can cause fatigue and depression, and therefore iron-rich foods are highly recommended! Eating smaller and more frequent meals will also keep energy levels up!
Helps Reduce Feelings of Depression
Remember that the mind and body are one and that the brain responds to what you consume. The human brain requires essential vitamins and nutrients in order to stay healthy and can’t function at full capacity if it doesn’t receive a healthy dose of each. When we do not have the right amount of healthy nutrients, we’re also at risk of developing mental health problems such as depression. While you’re making sure to eat the right foods, remember to also drink plenty of water!
Improves Concentration
While breakfast may be the most important meal of the day, many tend to skip out on eating first thing in the morning without realizing that it’s one of the best ways to maximize energy and increase concentration. Breakfast is the fuel for the body and mind. It’s vital to help us get ready for the day and helps us increase our learning ability and improve concentration on tasks.
Boosts Self Esteem
A healthy diet plays a large role in the way we perceive ourselves. It’s important to take care of our bodies with good nutrition. For those looking to lose weight, a healthy diet can help you lose weight faster, and can help you feel better psychologically. When you like the way you look in the mirror, your self-esteem is boosted. There’s no lie that body image is a contributing factor to self-esteem, and it’s important that we know how to put ourselves first and feel good about the way we look.
Maintains Heart Health
A healthy diet that’s rich in vegetables, fruits and low-fat dairy can help reduce the risk of heart diseases. Maintaining a healthy diet will in turn maintain blood pressure and cholesterol levels. Fish that are rich in omega-3 fatty acids (salmon, trout) are also good for maintaining a healthy heart.
Strong Bones and Teeth
A diet with a good amount of magnesium and calcium is vital for maintaining strong bones and teeth. Keeping our bones healthy is also important in preventing arthritis or osteoporosis as we get older.
Increases Your Lifespan!
Having a healthy diet has multiple benefits but we tend to forget that it can essentially increase our lifespan! A healthy and balanced diet boosts the immune system, allowing the body to fight off infections at a better rate. Healthy diets also reduce the risk of developing chronic illnesses or diseases such as heart disease or diabetes.
Author: Mandy Kloppers
Mandy is a qualified therapist who treats depression, anxiety, OCD, PTSD, trauma, and many other types of mental health issues. She provides online therapy around the world for those needing support and also provides relationship counselling.
