What we eat not only affects our fitness but also our emotions. Our gut, often called our “second brain,” houses trillions of microorganisms that communicate with our nervous and immune systems, impacting our mood. Eating foods that support these gut bacteria can stabilize our mood, while foods they dislike can cause stress and anxiety.
Research shows that gut microorganisms produce neurotransmitters affecting memory, learning, and emotions. A poor diet, lacking protein, can affect brain function. Conversely, probiotics and prebiotics promote a healthy gut balance.
Some foods may briefly lift mood but worsen stress long-term. Have you experienced a sugar rush followed by tiredness? Nutritionist Lovneet Batra advises avoiding certain foods, especially on busy days, to manage anxiety.
Sweets: Eating cakes and pastries can cause your blood sugar to spike and then crash, leading to mood swings and increased anxiety.
Artificial sweeteners: Using non-nutritive sweeteners like aspartame can also lead to stress and inflammation in the body.
Too much coffee: Drinking excessive coffee can overstimulate your body, affecting your adrenal glands and raising blood pressure, leading to increased anxiety.
Refined carbs: Foods high in refined carbs can worsen inflammation and stress levels by giving the body more sugar than it needs.
Fried food: Fried foods contain trans fats that can cause inflammation in the body, contributing to increased stress levels.
