Diet Deficiencies Affect Mental Health: Easy Fixes You Need to Know
Your mental health depends heavily on your diet, so deficiencies can affect your mood. However, there are easy fixes for common deficiencies that will restore your sense of well-being. Vitamins, supplements and diet changes can help you improve your mental health.
Vitamin D
A vitamin D deficiency has been linked to problems ranging from depression to Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD). Unfortunately, it is estimated that one billion people are not getting enough vitamin D. A lifestyle that avoids the sun and long winter months contribute to the problem, so doctors recommend taking vitamin D supplements and adding vitamin D rich foods to your diet. Orange juice, oily fish, mushrooms and fortified cereals are some common sources of the vitamin.
Folate
Studies on folate reveal it affects how people respond to antidepressants. Low levels of folate, sometimes called folic acid, are linked to depression. In addition, the vitamin may influence cognitive impairment. You can take supplements, or add more leafy green vegetables to your diet. Folate is found in beans, spinach, broccoli, lentils, avocado and other food sources.
Iron
Iron deficiencies are more common in women, but anyone can be affected by them. The symptoms include being irritable, tired, confused, anxious and depressed. Mood swings are a common issue for people who do not have enough iron in their system. However, deficiencies can be corrected with supplements or diet changes. Iron can be found in seafood, beans, poultry, red meat, leafy green vegetables, dried fruits and fortified cereals.
A Well-Rounded Diet
Diet deficiencies are a common problem and should not be ignored. They can affect more than just your mental health. This is why it is important to have a well-rounded diet that includes the major vitamins and minerals. It is easier to prevent a deficiency than to treat one, so you should focus on eating a variety of healthy foods every day.
Great tips. I’m a counselor and I firmly believe that what you eat affects your mood. Thank you for pointing out some options to boost your diet. Many youth don’t take care to eat well.
No unfortunately when young one thinks nothing will harm them!
I’m so glad you included this post at Motivation Monday! I’ve been working my way through the Whole30 and realizing how much food has affected my mood. I see the same issues in one of my kids.
I have a very hard time getting in my vitamins. I had a gastric bypass so it is even harder. If I miss even a day of my vitamins I can tell. Thanks for sharing at #HomeMattersParty
I know for myself I am put on vitamin D, and was also told to have bright lights on, just to help me out over the winter time.. Thanks for share
I’m always am amazed at the impact diet has on health.
I agree Rose and in areas of health I wouldn’t normally think it would affect.