Food for Thought: The connection between healthy food and mental health

We all know the old saying "you are what you eat." But did you know that what you eat can also affect how you feel? Studies have shown that there is a direct correlation between a healthy diet and a positive mood. So, if you want to feel good, it might be time to start paying closer attention to what you're putting in your body. 

Here are some key ways in which eating healthy foods can help boost your mood:

• Improved gut health: The gut-brain connection is a real thing, and the health of your gut can impact your mood. The nuts and grains found in BAR-U-EAT bars are a good example of this.
• Increased energy: When you eat a diet high in processed foods and sugar, you might experience a quick burst of energy followed by a crash. On the other hand, a diet rich in whole foods can provide sustained energy throughout the day, helping you feel more alert and focused. Medjool dates, along with almonds and pecans are a good example of super foods that provide sustained energy. Good thing they are the key ingredients for BAR-U-EAT bars and bites!!
• Reduced inflammation: Chronic inflammation has been linked to a variety of health problems, including depression and anxiety. Almonds and walnuts, can help reduce inflammation and improve your overall mood.
• Better sleep: The foods you eat can also impact the quality of your sleep. Eating a diet high in sugar and refined carbs can lead to restless nights, while a diet rich in whole foods can help promote better sleep, leaving you feeling more rested and refreshed.

Of course, making changes to your diet is easier said than done. Here are some tips to help you get started:

• Start small: You don't need to overhaul your entire diet overnight. Start by making small changes, such as swapping out your afternoon candy bar or sugar fix for a BAR-U-EAT, or adding a serving of vegetables to your dinner.
• Plan ahead: It's much easier to make healthy choices when you have healthy options readily available. Take some time to plan out your meals for the week, and make sure you have plenty of healthy snacks on hand (hint, hint..)
• Get creative: Healthy eating doesn't have to be boring. Try out new recipes and experiment with different flavor combinations to keep things interesting. I like to make PB+B's (peanut butter and BAR-U-EAT bars) when I'm hungry and on the go.

While there's no one-size-fits-all solution to improving your mood, making changes to your diet can be a great place to start. By focusing on whole, nutrient-dense foods, you can improve your gut health, increase your energy levels, reduce inflammation, and sleep better – all of which can help boost your overall mood and wellbeing. So the next time you're feeling down, remember that food can be a powerful tool in your mood-boosting arsenal.