What is the situationship (as the kids call it these days) with mood and food?

May is Mental Health Awareness Month, and it's the perfect time to prioritize your well-being. Honestly, every month is but the cultural reminder is helpful!  While many factors contribute to mental health, one often overlooked aspect is diet. The link between what we eat and how we feel is profound, with research consistently showing that our food choices directly impact our mood and cognition. Also, I am not saying that food is the ONLY connection to mental well-being; just that it is a strong one. In this post, we'll explore the connection between mood and food and discuss practical strategies for improving both.

Nutritional Deficiencies:

In today's modern world, nutritional deficiencies are common due to factors like food quality and sedentary lifestyles. Essential nutrients such as omega-3 fatty acids, vitamin D, and magnesium play crucial roles in supporting overall...

Pretty sure you know by now that I love food, making food, eating food, talking about food. 

But let's talk about the importance of finding joy and pleasure beyond just what we eat and drink. I know, I know. That's not as much fun. 

 A tasty meal can definitely make us happy at the moment, that instant gratification, but relying solely on food for ALL our pleasure can lead to unhealthy habits like overeating or emotional eating. This is the same with binge drinking. It is a cycle that leaves you feeling way worse.  

So, here's the deal: dopamine, the "feel-good" neurotransmitter, isn't only triggered by food and alcohol. That's so dope (haha, see what I did there?)

What To Do Instead

 We get those happy vibes from: 

1. Engaging in activities that bring excitement, happiness, and a sense of accomplishment.

2. Spending time with friends and being part of a community. Socializing, laughing, and having meaningful...