5 Foods for Your Mind and Body
Food nourishes our ENTIRE bodies, including our minds. If you are ever feeling down, sluggish or unproductive sometimes adding a boost to your next meal can help you shift into better spirits. Below are five foods that are excellent for the mind and body.
Kale: This delicious green veggie is so versatile and can be added in so many ways to your regular diet. Loaded with antioxidants and providing an excellent source of vitamin C this one is a must. Did I mention that iron, folate, and vitamin B6, are essential components for the brain to make molecules like serotonin and dopamine, making kale brain food.
Swiss Chard: Zero in on this seasonal superstar! It provides a source of vitamin K, A, and C. Vitamin K2 has been linked to reducing depression because it can normalize blood glucose. reduced anxiety and depression,
Leek: You can enjoy leeks raw or cooked. If you are looking to increase iron in your diet leeks are a great addition, iron is essential for a number of enzymes involved in neurotransmitter synthesis, including serotonin, dopamine, and norepinephrine [36], which are involved in the regulation of mood, neuronal activity, and anxiety [37, 38]. Iron deficiency is usually associated with a low level of serotonin.
Collard Greens: Rich in magnesium, B-6, and choline, collards are a great way to diversify greens in your diet. Steamed, sauteed, or raw this one is a no-brainer for your shopping cart. Some evidence suggests choline may play a role in the development and treatment of certain mental health disorders. One large observational study linked lower blood levels to a higher risk of anxiety — but not depression.
Radishes: If you’re looking for regulating your blood pressure the potassium in radishes can help with that. It can also give you a source of calcium, folate, and manganese. Radishes are delicious, try using them as a salad topping!