Mood swings or high blood sugar level? Here's why you should avoid processed foods
Diet tips: Including whole, unprocessed foods in your diet can not only benefit your physical health but also play a crucial role in enhancing mental well-being. Processed foods, often high in sugar, unhealthy fats, and additives, can negatively impact mental health. Here's how avoiding these foods can benefit your overall health.
Understanding processed foods Processed foods are those that have been altered from their original form through methods such as refining, preserving, and adding artificial ingredients. Common examples include sugary snacks, fast food, packaged meals, and sugary drinks. These foods are often high in refined sugars, unhealthy fats, and additives that can affect brain function and mood, says Radha Narang, a nutritionist based in Indore. (Image: Canva)
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Health benefits of avoiding processed foods: Reduce mood swings: Processed foods, especially those high in refined sugars and simple carbohydrates, can cause rapid spikes and crashes in blood sugar levels. This instability can lead to mood swings, irritability, and fatigue. Eating whole, unprocessed foods helps maintain stable blood sugar levels, promoting a more consistent mood and energy level. (Image: Canva)
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Improved brain health: Nutrient-dense, whole foods provide essential vitamins and minerals that support brain health. For example, omega-3 fatty acids from sources like fish and flaxseeds are crucial for cognitive function, while antioxidants from fruits and vegetables protect the brain from oxidative stress. Avoiding processed foods ensures that your brain receives the nutrients it needs to function normally. (Image: Canva)
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Lower risk of depression: Processed foods often contain high levels of unhealthy fats, such as trans fats and saturated fats, which can promote inflammation in the body. Chronic inflammation is linked to mental health conditions such as depression and anxiety. By avoiding processed foods and opting for anti-inflammatory foods like leafy greens, nuts, and fatty fish, you can reduce inflammation and lower your risk of developing mood disorders. (Image: Canva)
Enhanced mood regulation: There is a strong connection between gut health and mental health, often referred to as the gut-brain axis. Processed foods can disrupt the balance of beneficial gut bacteria, leading to digestive issues and negatively impacting mood. Whole foods, rich in fibre and prebiotics, support a healthy gut microbiome, which in turn can improve mood and reduce symptoms of anxiety and depression. (Image: Canva)
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Increased focus and productivity: Processed foods can lead to energy crashes and feelings of fatigue due to their high sugar content and low nutritional value. Consuming whole foods provides sustained energy and better overall health, which can enhance concentration, productivity, and overall mental clarity. (Image: Canva)
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Better mental health: Poor sleep quality is often linked to an unhealthy diet, particularly one high in processed foods. Nutrient-dense foods support better sleep patterns by providing essential nutrients that promote relaxation and regulate sleep hormones. Improved sleep quality contributes to better mental health by enhancing mood, cognitive function, and overall well-being. (Image: Canva)
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Positive self-image: Processed foods can contribute to weight gain and obesity, which are associated with negative self-esteem and mental health issues. By avoiding processed foods and focussing on whole, nutrient-rich options, you can better manage your weight and improve your self-image, leading to a more positive mental outlook. (Image: Canva)
