How changing your eating habits help fight depression and anxiety

Changing the way you approach your diet can have a positive affect when facing a difficult time with stress, anxiety or depression.

Feeding the brain the right mix of glucose, fats and vitamins will help improve your mood.

Breakfast is the most important meal of the day, don’t skip it. Having the energy to tackle the day is so important when faced with low mood.

A continental breakfast is an ideal start, cereals, fruits and yoghurt, poached egg on toast and fresh juice will give you a positive boost.

Lunchtimes in the office can be difficult, meals made the night before will reduce the need to “pop to the shop” Wholegrain sandwiches or a mixed salad are all meals that can be tasty and beneficial. Use a mixture of eggs, cheese, fish, fresh lean meats, pastas, rice or couscous. Add some nuts or seeds for added flavour.

Dinner fresh food is the key to have a beneficial impact. Lean meats, broccoli, sprouts, fatty fish, pastas, rice and potatoes, lend to an exciting menu.

Snacks

Some healthy food can feel like you are eating cardboard. You don’t have to sacrifice taste to improve your mood, try a cracker with some low fat cheese, a piece of fruit or even a bar of dark chocolate! Yummy.

Drinks

Water is the drink for the brain; 6-8 glasses per day will boost your mood.

By limiting or reducing your daily intake of caffeine and alcohol low mood will also improve.

Coffee, energy drinks, tea, hot chocolate and alcohol can cause dehydration and lower vitamin B levels, leading to increased depression or anxiety effects.