The modern Western world tends to eat a diet that is high in sugar, gluten, omega-6 fatty acids, and toxins. These things have a detrimental effect on our brains and therefore effect our mental health. This typical diet causes inflammation, which in turn triggers a stress response in our brain causing the release of cytokins. When these immune system messengers are inappropriately or excessively produced they affect our brains ability to receive and process signals from other parts of the nervous system. Cytokins are produced in response to increased blood sugar levels, consumption of trans fat, and changes in the bacteria in the gut. Food allergies may also activate the immune system and affect cognition, learning, memory, and mood through this same mechanism.
Refined carbohydrates and high sugar foods causes our pancreas to secrete insulin. High insulin levels also creates inflammation. This has been linked to many chronic illnesses, such as, heart disease, diabetes, and cancer, but also with mental health conditions like depression. Sugar can have the same effect on our brain as any addictive drug. It causes cravings and withdrawals, plus it can even create depression and anxiety symptoms.
Did you know that gluten and casein, if not properly digested, form a morphine-like substance called gluteomorphins and casomorphins? These opiate protein fragments can cross the blood-brain barrier and have been linked to ADHD and schizophrenia. If you have an allergy to either of these things, you should avoid eating products that contain them, such as wheat, barley, rye, and animal products.
When it comes to fats, you should be cautious of the types you eat. Omega-3 fatty acids are good fats to intake. They have been utilized in treatments for depression and bipolar disorder. Omega-6 fatty acids are fats you want to steer clear of. They have associated with many negative effects on the brain.
Did you know that our gut has a nervous system of its own? Well, in fact our digestive system plays a major role in our mental state as well. The human gut consists of about 100 million nerve cells and uses more than 30 neurotransmitters, just like our brain. It is not widely known, but about 95% of our body’s serotonin is found in the gut. The guts nervous system is so crucial that is has been called “the second brain”. The balance between the microbiome (the bacteria in the gut that is directly affected by your diet) plays a crucial role in our mood and behavior.
If you would like to learn about how to alter your diet to assist your mental health and mood, please feel free to visit PinkRoots Coaching. We are now offering 1-On-1 coaching via phone or video chat to help you learn about the proper foods to eat and what to stay away from to live a balanced and happy life.