Do you know about Nexus between food and mental health? In the pursuit of healthier lifestyle choices, the intersection of food and mental health has taken center stage, with experts cautioning against certain foods that may exacerbate stress and anxiety.
Renowned psychiatrist Dr. Michelle DiBlasi, based at Tufts Medical Center in Boston, sheds light on the addictive nature of specific foods, triggering a dopamine rush akin to substance use in the brain.
Nexus between food and mental health
Dr. DiBlasi underscores the intricate link between stress, emotional eating, and mental health, particularly for those grappling with anxiety.
The focus is on foods high in sugar, fat, and salt, including burgers, carbonated drinks, and processed sweets, which she suggests can lead to genuine food addiction.
The cravings for these elements, she notes, can be overpowering, presenting a formidable challenge for individuals attempting to curtail consumption once initiated.
Addressing this issue, Dr. DiBlasi advocates for a crucial first step: when the stress response kicks in, pause and listen to your body.
Her advice centers on eating based on bodily cues rather than succumbing to emotions.
She stresses the importance of recognizing genuine hunger versus emotional states such as anxiety or boredom, aiming to shift the focus from emotional triggers to physiological needs.
While the identification of trigger foods is recommended, Dr. DiBlasi advises against their complete elimination.
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Instead, she encourages individuals to be mindful of their relationship with such foods.
For instance, if stress prompts a craving for French fries, outright bans are discouraged to prevent heightened cravings and potential overconsumption.
In addition to these insights, Dr. DiBlasi provides practical strategies for mindful eating. This includes sitting down, eating slowly, and savoring food.
Notably, she advocates for avoiding screen time during meals to enhance mindfulness about food choices.
The overarching message from Dr. DiBlasi is clear: understanding the complex connection between food and mental health empowers individuals to make conscious choices for their well-being.
By incorporating mindful eating practices and being cognizant of both emotional and physiological aspects of food consumption, individuals can work towards fostering a healthier relationship with food, ultimately positively impacting their mental health.
