These top 5 foods to support healthy mental wellness

Mental health has become one of the most prominent topics of discussion, with individuals increasingly focused on improving their well-being each day. Many are grappling with various aspects of mental health and actively seeking help through therapy, medications, and supplements to address their needs.

As a wellness practitioner, I’ve had the privilege of working with individuals facing both unique and shared challenges. This experience has enabled me to guide them towards foundational protocols that incorporate personal holistic practices and lifestyle modifications tailored to their circumstances.

There are certain dimensions of our lives that we may overlook or remain unaware of while confronting this pressing issue in our society.

You might wonder, "What are we missing that deserves our attention?" I would argue that it's our current food system, which often falls short in providing the nutrient-dense supplies essential for supporting our mental well-being. While there are various practices that can enhance mental development, the truth is that we all consume food, and our eating habits differ. The impact of what we ingest is often immediately noticeable in our bodies.
Here are the top 5 foods, along with a bonus, that can enhance your mental well-being:

**Wild Fish** – Varieties like sardines and salmon are abundant in healthy fats, particularly omega-3s, along with vital minerals and nutrients that foster a positive mood, enhance cellular communication, and mitigate enzymatic activities that can disrupt brain function.

**Nuts & Seeds** – Options such as walnuts, Brazil nuts, hemp seeds, sunflower seeds, and pumpkin seeds are excellent sources of protein, healthy fats, vitamin A, E, selenium, and important minerals and phytonutrients. These contribute to sustained mental energy and focus. It's best to consume these in moderation.

**Sea Vegetables** – Algae, seaweeds, and sea moss are rich in marine minerals, antioxidants, B vitamins, and amino acids, all crucial for brain structure development and cellular protection. They promote overall health. It's advisable to do thorough research to ensure you are choosing non-toxic and sustainable options.

**Medicinal Mushrooms** – Lion's Mane and Reishi mushrooms are excellent for cognitive support and nervous system health. Lion's Mane can be found either as fresh produce or in supplement form. There is ongoing discussion in the mushroom community regarding whether mycelium or the fruiting body is superior, but I recommend opting for the whole food version.

**Microgreens** – Consider the sprouts of beans and vegetables, which are densely packed with nutrients that positively impact your cells. These foods provide essential nutrients that foster vitality and liveliness.

**Probiotics** – These beneficial microorganisms help maintain balance in the gut and brain through efficient communication and the production of B vitamins and other essential enzymes. Probiotics are live foods that can be enjoyed through fermented options like teas, cultured vegetables, dairy products, and tofu.

When we nourish our bodies well, we enhance our mental, emotional, and physical well-being.

To discover more ways to boost your mental health, consider booking a wellness session.
Be well.