Family Health

Eating healthy foods can support your body and brain. Your gut, which is your stomach and intestines, is filled with tiny microbes that help your body work. These microbes can change your mood, sleep, stress, and emotions.

Research shows that eating more fruits and veggies is linked to better mental well-being. A good place to start is a Mediterranean-style food plan. This means eating more:

• Fruits
• Veggies
• Fish
• Nuts
• Beans
• Olive oil
• Dairy

Try to limit fried foods, processed meats, sugary drinks, baked sweets, alcohol, and too much caffeine.

Foods that may help lower stress and inflammation:

• High-fiber foods
• Healthy fats
• Fruits and veggies
• Fermented foods

Simple swaps—try:

• Whole foods instead of processed foods
• Whole grains instead of refined grains
• Water instead of soda
• Herbs or spices instead of extra sugar or salt

Talk to your doctor before making big diet changes if you take medicine, since some foods can affect it.

Source: Healthline
Sandra Barajas-Avalos, BA, Wellness and Prevention Program Specialist I, Bilingual I

Categories: Health Education Corner