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If you’re feeling anxious lay off these common foods to avoid it getting worse
Emotional eating is a coping mechanism for most people grappling with mental health issues. Despite the comfort it brings, a recent study warns against indulging in fatty and unhealthy foods when you aren’t feeling your best.
Health experts encourage people to eat nutritious food and stay active as both aspects are indispensable for a quality life. Although processed foods are momentarily satisfying, we don’t realize the long-term impact they can have on our mental and physical health.
Study warns against eating fatty food when you’re anxious
Anxiety is a complex emotion that often brings life to a halt if not dealt with effectively. When going about daily life becomes a hill task due to mounting fear and anxiety, we naturally turn to our favorite junk food to feel better.
Whether it’s a creamy pie or a salty chip, every bite seems to soothe the unsettling emotions, although only for the time being. The latest study published in the Bariatric Centers of America says that unhealthy habits can backfire.
Eating fatty foods when you’re anxious will only influence the brain in several negative ways, therefore making you feel worse. Here’s how junk food alters the brain functions:
- A high-fat diet can cause systemic inflammation, which affects brain function and triggers anxiety. Disruption of normal signaling results in mood disorders.
- Fatty foods can throw the gut bacteria off balance, thus leading to changes in brain function and increased anxiety.
- Foods high in fat also influence hormone levels, which can affect the regulation of stress and mood.
“Imbalances in hormones like cortisol and serotonin can contribute to heightened anxiety,” the study notes.
Healthy diet is key to a sound mind
Adopting a healthy lifestyle helps mitigate anxiety caused by fatty foods. As not all fats are created equally, doctors recommend eating foods rich in healthy fats crucial for proper brain functioning.
Avocados, olive oil, nuts and seeds, and fatty fish are considered highly beneficial for brain health while consuming fruits and vegetables supports the gut microbiome with high fiber and essential nutrients.
Limiting processed food high in sugars, fats, and salt is highly recommended in addition to staying physically active and hydrated.
