Nutrition & Mental Health: A Word from Your Registered Dietitian

In the pursuit of better mental health, we often turn to various strategies such as therapy, meditation, exercise, and of course, nutrition. The link between what we eat and how we feel is undeniable, with numerous studies highlighting the impact of diet on mental well-being. Yet, in our eagerness to optimize our nutrition for mental health, it's easy to fall into the trap of overwhelm and self-criticism. Amidst the abundance of advice and recommendations, it's essential to remember one crucial ingredient: grace.

The world of nutrition can often seem like a neverending maze, with conflicting advice at every turn. One day, we're told to embrace a particular superfood; the next, it's demonized as the culprit behind all our woes. Add to that the pressure of social media, where perfectly curated plates and #cleaneating hashtags reign supreme, it's no wonder we feel overwhelmed and at a loss of what to believe is true.

Here are 3 gentle reminders to curate a healthy plate & mind.

Reminder 1: Strive for Balance, Not Perfection

In our quest for better overall health, it's vital to remind ourselves that perfection is not the goal. Striving for an immaculate diet 24/7 is not only unrealistic but also detrimental to our well-being. The stress of constantly monitoring every morsel we consume can overshadow any potential benefits, negating the very purpose of our efforts.

Let's shift our focus from perfection to progress as small, sustainable changes in our eating habits can have a significant impact on our mental well-being over time. Celebrate the moments when you choose nourishing foods that make you feel good, but also be gentle with yourself on days when you opt for convenience or comfort.

Reminder 2: Listen to Your Body

Amidst the abundance of nutritional advice, there's one voice that often gets drowned out: our own bodies. Cultivating mindful eating habits involves tuning in to our body's signals of hunger, satiety, and cravings. Sometimes, what our body truly needs isn't another kale salad but a comforting bowl of pasta or a piece of chocolate. Remind yourself that trusting these signals and honoring our cravings is an act of self-compassion.

Reminder 3: Embrace Flexibility & Find Joy in Nourishment

Many of us see nutrition as a list of rigid rules and self-imposed restrictions. Instead, let's embrace flexibility in our approach and above all, find joy in nourishing our bodies and minds. Eating should be a source of pleasure, not stress. Allow yourself to enjoy your favorite indulgences without guilt or shame, experiment with new recipes, savor the flavors and textures of your meals, and relish the social aspect of sharing food with loved ones. When we approach nutrition with a mindset of joy & open-mindedness rather than obligation, the benefits extend far beyond our plates.

Better nourishment starts with a shift in perspective.

As the month of May marks the month of Mental Health Awareness, remember to be kind to oneself: embrace imperfection, prioritize self-compassion, and find joy in the act of nourishing both body and mind. In the gentle art of giving ourselves permission to be human, we discover the true essence of well-being.