You may have heard the saying that ‘the way to a man’s heart is through his stomach.’ A new research study has revealed a similar connection, applicable to both men and women. A study conducted at the University of Virginia in the United States suggests that enjoying tasty food can help people overcome depression and other mental health problems.
According to this research, the path to a joyful mind goes through the stomach. Keeping the tongue and stomach happy can contribute to keeping mental health problems at bay. Tasty food directly influences mental health.
Until now, the environment and physical health around individuals were considered responsible for mental health problems. This research brings forth entirely new information that could be a boon for millions of people in the future.
In the future, it might be possible for doctors to recommend a fantastic restaurant or a menu instead of medications to cope with depression and stress.
The saying “you are what you eat” holds true, as evidenced by recent American research. The research indicates that flavorful meals are as effective as medication in stress management, anxiety, and depression.
Traditionally, individuals dealing with any kind of illness are advised to follow a specific diet. The fear of tasteless and bland dietary restrictions is the biggest concern when someone is unwell.
For people struggling with mental health problems, social media suggests various peculiar food items. These food items are often tasteless or have a peculiar taste, making them difficult to consume. However, new research suggests that overcoming mental health problems is possible through the enjoyment of tasty food.
The University of Virginia’s research sheds light on how food affects our mental health. The research reveals that our stomach contains various types of good bacteria and microorganisms. Fermented foods and yogurt are rich sources of these microorganisms. When these microorganisms are present in the stomach, they directly impact our feelings, creating a sense of happiness in the mind.
Approximately 40% of people in India are grappling with some form of common mental disorder, according to statistics. This means that randomly selecting 5 individuals from any corner or family in the country, 2 of them are likely to be struggling with a common mental disorder.
Mental health problems are often seen as a taboo in society. However, according to the numbers, nearly 40% of people in India are dealing with some form of common mental disorder. Despite this, only 10% of people receive medical assistance. As a result, most cases never reach a doctor, leading to severe consequences such as increased suicide rates and domestic violence.
In such a scenario, positive changes in food habits and lifestyle can help prevent mental disorders.
There is a direct connection between food and the mind, as explained by nutritionist Dr. Raja Malik. Before food reaches the stomach, it signals the mind through the tongue. Eating preferred foods or foods associated with good memories triggers happiness in the mind. This leads to the immediate release of dopamine in the body, making people feel relaxed.
If food is not only tasty but also healthy, it sends signals of happiness to the mind through both the tongue and the stomach. In this way, the strength to fight against happiness and mental health problems increases.
To keep the mind happy, consider adopting treat therapy and treat yourself. Animals often perform various actions, and immediately after that, trainers give them something to eat as a treat or reward. In this temptation, animals happily perform the tasks assigned to them.
A report from the ‘Consumer Psychology’ journal suggests that humans can also keep themselves happy and mentally fit through treat therapy. For example, if the mind is feeling down or irritable, or after working long hours, eating something you like can bring happiness to the mind. This will make the mind feel happy, and the body will be ready to face such hard work again. After the treat or reward, work will not feel like a burden, and the risk of stress or anxiety due to work will also be reduced.
Treats can come in various forms, but the best and most immediately effective treat is to eat something you like or a good drink. Research in the United States also indicates this. To keep the mind happy, take care of both the tongue and the stomach.
If looking for a famous restaurant to deal with depression in the future, don’t be surprised. Just strive to create a balance between taste and health. In the end, it’s essential to understand that keeping the tongue happy should not lead to upsetting the stomach. Nutritionists have suggested several food items that are both tasty and healthy as the best options for treating oneself.
