Why Nutrition Is Important for Adults With Anxiety

One of the main things that adults with anxiety can have trouble with is getting proper nutrition. This is often because anxiety can make it difficult to eat, leading to a decrease in appetite or a tendency to turn to unhealthy comfort foods.

However, good nutrition is essential for maintaining a healthy body and mind. In fact, studies have shown that nutrition can significantly impact mental health and reduce the severity of anxiety symptoms. Explore the importance of proper nutrition for adults with anxiety and learn how to make sure you are getting the nutrients your body and mind need.

Proper Nutrition Helps Reduce Anxiety Symptoms

Certain nutrients are especially helpful for reducing anxiety symptoms. For example, omega-3 fatty acids, found in foods like salmon and chia seeds, have been shown to lower levels of the stress hormone cortisol. Processed foods or foods that are high in sugar or trans fats, on the other hand, can increase cortisol levels. Higher cortisol levels lead to higher stress levels, which in turn contributes to anxiety.

There are plenty of foods that can exacerbate anxiety, including fried foods, caffeine, baked goods, and alcohol. However, this doesn’t mean you have to cut these foods out of your diet entirely. By consuming these foods in moderation and filling your diet with plenty of nutrient-rich meals, drinks, and snacks, you can create a more balanced diet and ensure better health for your body and your mind.

Better Nutrition Improves Sleep

You probably already know that drinking caffeine late in the day will keep you up at night, but did you know that other foods—like fatty or high-protein meals—can also disrupt your sleep patterns? Sleep disturbances, such as insomnia, can increase anxiety levels and worsen symptoms. A balanced diet can help to regulate sleep patterns by improving digestion and balancing your energy levels so you can fall asleep and stay asleep more easily.

Improve your sleep schedule by including plenty of high-fiber foods—such as fresh fruits and vegetables, whole grains, and low-fat proteins—into your diet. You can also help regulate melatonin levels with foods that are high in B vitamins, including fish, lean meats, legumes, and eggs.

The Importance of Seeking Professional Help

While proper nutrition is important for adults with anxiety, it is not a substitute for professional help. If you are experiencing anxiety, it is important to seek help from a mental health professional. They can use different types of therapy and treatment plans to help you identify where your anxiety comes from and build skills to better manage anxiety symptoms. A therapist can also help you establish and stick with healthy habits—like following a balanced diet—that will improve your mental and physical well-being.