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Zak Zahner

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September 30, 2025

Food and Feelings: How Nutrition Impacts Your Mindset

Your Gut Is Your Second Brain

Your digestive system isn’t just for breaking down food—it’s a mood-making machine. About 90% of your serotonin (the “feel-good” chemical) is produced in your gut. That means your mental health is directly tied to your gut health.

A balanced gut microbiome—fed by fiber-rich veggies, fermented foods, and lean proteins—can help regulate mood, reduce anxiety, and boost emotional resilience.

Inflammation: The Silent Mood Killer

Ultra-processed foods, refined sugars, and trans fats don’t just mess with your waistline—they spark inflammation that disrupts brain chemicals like dopamine and serotonin. This can lead to mood swings, fatigue, and even symptoms of depression.

Want to feel more stable and energized? Swap the junk for whole foods that fight inflammation—think berries, leafy greens, nuts, and omega-3-rich fish like salmon.

Blood Sugar and Brain Fog

Ever feel irritable or foggy after a sugar crash? That’s your blood glucose rollercoaster messing with your brain. Stable blood sugar equals stable mood. Combine protein, healthy fats, and complex carbs to keep your energy (and mindset) steady throughout the day.

Nutrients That Nourish Your Mind

Here are some MVPs for mental wellness:

  • Omega-3s: Found in fish, flaxseeds, and walnuts. Linked to lower rates of depression and anxiety.
  • B-Vitamins: Especially B6, B9 (folate), and B12. Crucial for neurotransmitter production.
  • Magnesium: Supports sleep, stress response, and calm. Found in spinach, almonds, and dark chocolate.
  • Zinc: Boosts brain plasticity and focus. Get it from pumpkin seeds, beef, and chickpeas.

Real Talk: Food Is Power

You don’t need a perfect diet—just a purposeful one. Start small. Add one mood-boosting food to your plate today. Keep a food journal. Notice how different meals make you feel. Your body will tell you what works.

And remember: every bite is a chance to support not just your physical strength, but your emotional strength too.

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