High-fat Diet May Increase Anxiety

O C T O B E R 2 0 2 5 M E N T A L H E A L T H M I N U T E Mental Health Minute World Mental Health Day: Take Action World Mental Health Day, observed annually on Oct. 10, is a global initiative to raise awareness about mental health issues and mobilize efforts to support mental well-being. Established by the World Federation for Mental Health in 1992, this day serves as a reminder of the importance of mental health and the need for accessible care for all. How to Thrive Year-round As the understanding of mental health grows, so do individuals’ abilities to manage and improve it. Here are some strategies to help you thrive year- round: • Find the positive. Cultivate a positive mindset by focusing on the good in your life. Practice gratitude by keeping a journal of things you are thankful for, no matter how small. • Create healthy routines. Establish routines that promote physical and mental well-being. Regular exercise, balanced nutrition and adequate sleep are foundational to good mental health. • Own your feelings. Acknowledge your emotions without judgment. Accepting your feelings can help you manage them more effectively and seek help when needed. • Connect with others. Building and maintaining strong relationships can provide emotional support and a sense of belonging. Make time for family and friends, and don’t hesitate to reach out when you need support. 401 Pennsylvania Pkwy, Suite 200 Indianapolis, IN 46280 LHDbenefits.com Office: Population Health: [email protected] High-fat Diet May Increase Anxiety When feeling stressed, you may instinctively reach for junk food, which is often high in fat. However, a new study at the University of Colorado Boulder revealed that consuming high-fat foods might actually worsen anxiety symptoms. Researchers believe this is happening due to the connection between gut bacteria and brain chemicals that regulate anxiety levels. Experts recommend supporting the gut microbiome and signaling pathways through healthy eating and reducing high-fat and overly processed food intake. Consider incorporating the following foods into your daily diet: • Foods with omega-3 fatty acids: fatty fish, flaxseeds, chia seeds, walnuts and avocado • Foods rich in fiber: beans, lentils, sweet potato and whole grains • Fermented foods: kimchi, miso, tempeh, kombucha, kefir and yogurt • Prebiotic foods: garlic, onions, asparagus, bananas and oats • Dark leafy greens: spinach, kale, arugula, Swiss chard and collard greens • Berries: raspberries, strawberries and blueberries These findings about the mind-body connection emphasize the need to consider dietary choices beyond weight management. For guidance on nutrition and mental health, contact a qualified medical provider.