Superfoods improve our physical health and our quality of life. But not most people are aware that these can also help improve our mental health. It is quite impossible to draw a line between mind and body regarding nutrition and health. Why? Our daily nutrition affects our mind just as much as the body.

 

This suggests that it is important to consume adequate nutrition to support mental health and maintain brain function. You can consume your daily value through food and in the form of dietary supplements.

Foods

Here are the two most important foods that help improve mental health.

1. Salmon

Consuming fish is great for enhancing brain function and reducing symptoms of various mental disorders. However, it is even better to opt for the ‘fatty’ fish, salmon. Salmon is rich in mega-3 fatty acids that can help reduce the side effects of psychological disorders like depression.

 

On the other hand, these fatty acids also prove significant in boosting memory and improving learning skills. This fish option also contains high amounts of vitamin D that can further reduce the rate of depression. Other good fish options include tuna, herring, and mackerel.

2. Nuts

Nuts are another great source of omega-3 fatty acids that combat depression and boost brain function. You must especially consume nuts if you perform activities that require critical and analytical thinking.

 

Cashews improve oxygen supply to the brain and the added dose of magnesium. Similarly, almonds contain phenylalanine, a compound that increases dopamine production in the brain. This increased production of healthy neurotransmitters results in a better mood, reducing symptoms of depression and anxiety.

Dietary Supplements

While you can complete your body’s daily value through diet, it can often be difficult. Here are some dietary supplements that have shown significant mental health improvements.

1. St. John’s Wort

St. John’s Wort is a herbal supplement with various benefits for human health. While it can assist wound healing and reduce the symptoms of menopause, St. John’s Wort also helps with mental health disorders. Studies suggest that daily consumption of St. John’s Wort supplements can alleviate depression.

 

Various research has come forth that shows St. John’s Wort functionality being similar to antidepressants. Not to mention, these herbal supplements happen to be even better than some antidepressants in terms of adverse side effects. Using St. John’s Wort supplements can reenergize your brain, eliminating stress and feelings of tiredness.

2. CBD Gummies

CBD gummies such as C-Sweet and Daily Viviant can also help the mind and body cope with stress and alleviate symptoms of depression and anxiety. Catching Z's CBD gummies also added melatonin to help you have better sleep. Cannabinoids are sweet, chewable dietary supplements commonly known as CBDs. These improve mental health by working with your body’s endocannabinoid system. 

 

The endocannabinoid system maintains homeostasis within the body by working in the brain’s central nervous system. According to research, CBDs can interact with CB1 and CB2 receptors of the nervous system. This leads to neurotransmitters such as serotonin that can reduce anxiety.