Do you believe certain foods may be addictive?
While some might say, “That’s bananas!” research shows that highly processed foods have similarities to drugs of abuse. So, if you ever felt like saying no to another slice of cake or eating just one chip is challenging, it’s not because you’re weak-willed.
Junk foods not only increase your blood sugar but also hijack your brain chemistry, making you crave more. Now, if you’re trying to be more mindful of what you eat, it helps to know what good and bad foods do to your body. That being said, let’s talk a bit about food chemistry and why you might want to consider a diet change.
Fueling Your Mind and Body
Does it matter what type of food you eat?
Just like you wouldn’t put junk fuel in an expensive car, you should think twice about eating foods that can harm your brain and body. When you consume foods rich in vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, you protect your body from oxidative stress.
Remember, when there are more free radicals present in your body, these can damage proteins, fatty tissue, and DNA. If left unchecked, oxidative stress can result in various diseases, including diabetes, heart disease, and even cancer.
What You Eat and Your Mood
The kind of food you eat can also affect your emotions. Keep in mind that your gastrointestinal tract produces over 90% of the serotonin in your body. Serotonin, by the way, is a neurotransmitter that helps regulate mood, sleep, and appetite.
Eating good foods also helps protect your gut microbiome, also known as the body’s second brain. A healthy gut microbiome means your body can better absorb nutrients, fight off disease-causing microorganisms, and produce more mood-boosting hormones.
Time for a Diet Change
Now that you have some idea about the role of food in promoting overall health, are you thinking about changing your diet?
Though you can follow different diet plans, you must choose one that’s sustainable for your lifestyle. You don’t want to go on a diet, then go back to your previous eating habits because you’ve already achieved your ideal weight. Eating right should be your lifelong goal.
Of course, some want fast weight loss results. The keto diet can help with this. For more information, you can check out this guide from pricepropharmacy.com.
Post-keto, you don’t have to swear off carbs forever. You can slowly reintroduce carbs back to your diet, but make sure to opt for healthy carbs. Also, if you need a cheat day, be sure it’s just a day and that you’re choosing balanced meals and snacks for the rest of the week.
Eat Right to Feel All Right
Understanding the impact of what you eat on your mind and body can help you assess your current diet.
If you feel you need to change your eating habits, consider your options. There are many diet plans out there, but be sure you’re following one that’s right for you.
For more diet tips and advice, you can check out our other posts.