By Tina Smith, M.Ed., LPC

Are you what you eat? Yes, you are! Your mood can be negatively affected by how and what you eat. Our diet and how we eat contribute to symptoms of depression such as low energy, low motivation, crankiness, or symptoms of anxiety such as insomnia or feeling overly stimulated. Integrative mental health therapy with nutrition in mind involves identifying tendencies, habits, family history, and creating awareness of root causes. Awareness is the first key to promote change. Many people understand the importance of eating healthy, but in a fast-paced world that promotes convenient processed foods, making the right choices becomes more challenging. We might be deceived by labels claiming no added sugar, low fat, and low calorie. Consequently, we might overlook crucial nutrients that can contribute to improved sleep, energy, and most importantly, a better mood.

Just think for a moment about the job of your gut. It takes in what we decide to give it; it processes it; and then puts it back out. Have you ever heard of the saying, “garbage in, garbage out.” This can be a harsh reality for some. However, this is not a time for shame, but a time for change.

Depression may invoke a tendency to use foods for comfort, late night eating, overeating, and cravings. However, using the right foods at the right time for comfort can beneficial. Anxiety symptoms can increase when certain foods are consumed. However, nutrient dense foods can help with sleep, relaxation, clarity, and increase energy. Your mental health journey should include the whole person. This includes mind, body, and spirit. We can be broken in different areas, but the body stays intact. So effective self-care is essential. Gaining awareness of ineffective habits can play a small, but crucial part in managing moods. As I talk with client’s, I begin to understand their personal family needs, identify pitfalls,
and patterns, while assisting with incorporating a system that will promote positive and long- lasting change. More importantly, your efforts can essentially improve the health of the next generation.