May is Mental Health Awareness month. There are many factors that can prevent and help manage mental illness, but a number of studies indicate that nutrition correlates directly with mental well-being. ๐ง
Nearly 1 in 5 adults in the U.S. live with a mental illness.
Mental health includes our emotional, psychological, and social well-being.
Studies have shown that a high intake of fruits and vegetables is associated with lower odds of depression, psychological distress, mood swings, and anxiety disorders.
A high intake of fruits and vegetables is rich in antioxidants, which can reduce the detrimental effects of oxidative stress on mental health.
Eating fruit and vegetables may protect against future risk of clinical depression and anxiety as well.
Studies have shown that for people who eat even 1 serving of leafy greens per day, their brain ages 11 years younger than those who donโt.ย
A heart healthy diet is also a brain healthy diet.
Increased fruit and vegetable consumption is correlated to increased happiness, life satisfaction, and well-being.