A whole foods plant-based diet has so many health benefits and sometimes I have to stop myself from shouting about it from the rooftops. Not everyone is ready or willing to hear what I’m saying, and that’s fine. My clients come to me for so many different reasons as well, but most of them benefit greatly in terms of their health when they focus more on a whole foods and usually plant-based diet.
One of the many health benefits I’d like to mention today though is the positive effect a plant-based diet has been proven to have on depression and mental health. There is evidence that suggests a diet rich in whole, plant-based foods may improve people’s mental health. What a fun and yummy way to mind the mind, right?
There is emerging research on the gut microbiome and its effect on physical and mental health conditions. The gut is connected to the brain and more and more research suggests that bacteria in the gut may affect depression. Whole plant foods have been shown to have a positive effect on the gut bacteria, as well as to not cause the same inflammation that many trans fats and processed foods can cause. Inflammation has been linked to depression as well. Here’s some more information on diet and depression.
So the dietary recommendations for preventing depression, based on the evidence, include eating more fruits, vegetables, nuts, seeds, beans, legumes and whole grains; consuming a high amount of omega-3 fatty acids (found in ground flaxseed, walnuts, hemp seeds, chia seeds, avocados and blueberries); cutting down on processed foods, fast foods and sweets and eating more wholesome nutritious foods.
I am of course not in any way suggesting you go off your medication if you are coping with depression. I am just sharing that a plant-based diet has been shown to help with the prevention and treatment of depression and it might therefore prove beneficial to you along with other treatment. Please talk to your medical professional if you are thinking of trying a plant-based diet to help with your depression.
And if you need some inspo regarding recipes and what to eat, check out recipes on my blog and get in touch with any questions. I would love to help you out.
Looking forward to hearing from you!
xo Bee
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