It’s no surprise that the majority of the world is trying to find a new norm. With schools, businesses, and other used-to-be essential places closed or on lockdown, you may be experiencing emotional imbalances like never before. While you may be tempted to soothe with processed (and other) unhealthy foods, let me help you improve your mood during this pandemic. Keep reading for my top 7 supplement suggestions that you can begin implementing now.
Vitamin D
As a child, were you ever told, “Go outside and get some sun – it’ll do ya some good!”? It does the body good because it’s a natural form of Vitamin D, the vitamin that’s directly tied to helping you have a normal functioning immune system. Not only does it give your immune system extra protection, but it also helps improve resistance against certain diseases (especially during this time), and reduces depression
Ways to naturally get Vitamin D:
- Spend time in the sun.
- Salmon
- Egg yolk
- Yogurt
- Orange juice.
Fish Oil
When it comes to mental health, a fish oil supplement can be your best friend. With your brain being made of about 60% fat, it’s no wonder that omega-3 fatty acids are essential for normal brain function. Being cooped up in the house can certainly take its toll on the mind, so consider adding this supplement to your wellness regimen. Don’t worry, taking a fish oil supplement – or opting in to get it naturally – won’t have you smelling like fish when taken in moderation.
Looking to cook up your own fish to get this supplement? Try these:
- Herring
- Tune
- Mackerel
- Cod
Vitamin C
Considered one of the most essential vitamins, Vitamin C is known to boost immunity and support your memory and thinking. Can we say hello clarity? Although our bodies do not naturally produce this amazing vitamin, there are ways to ensure it gets into your system. Consider adding these to your next meal or beverage (especially in a smoothie):
- Oranges
- Strawberries
- Kiwi
- Kale
- Bell peppers
- Spinach
- Broccoli
Magnesium
Looking to calm the nervous system? You’ll want to add magnesium as one of your go-to supplements. Considered one of the most abundant minerals in the body, magnesium plays an important role in regulating neurotransmitters. In other words, it helps send messages from the brain throughout the entire body. This is why magnesium is considered a helper in fighting anxiety.
While there are many forms of magnesium, the best kind to consider taking for anxiety are magnesium lactate or magnesium oxide.
Probiotics
Have you ever heard the saying, “The gut is the second brain!”? This saying branches from the understanding that a person’s gut health is possibly directly tied to their mental health and function. Basically, bacteria in the intestines can produce chemicals that have an effect on brain function and mental health.
Adding a probiotic to your diet can be beneficial when trying to clean both your gut and your mind. Pick some of these up next time you are at the grocery store:
- Yogurt
- Tofu
- Sauerkraut
Vitamin B
Vitamin B is another supplement that contributes to overall good health and well-being. This particular vitamin has a direct impact on your energy levels, brain function, and metabolism (which is much needed with all the extra snacking going on). There are many foods considered high in Vitamin B, such as:
- Salmon
- Leafy greens
- Liver (and other organ meats)
- Eggs
- Yogurt
5-HTP
With present day circumstances such as the coronavirus pandemic, there are times when your mood and mental health get to a place out of your control. A supplement such as the 5-HTP is a great way to help reduce the severity of generalized anxiety. This alternative is an amino acid that helps produce serotonin in the brain.
Having proper serotonin levels means better regulation in your mood (and anxiety). As with any natural supplement, make sure to do your research and find a brand that is both safe and effective.
How To Easily Add Supplements to Improve Your Mood
Yes, it can be difficult to make the changes needed in your diet to support a new wellness lifestyle; however, the side effects are totally worth it. To jumpstart your journey of improving your mood – especially during the coronavirus epidemic – try these practical tips:
-
- Set achievable goals. For example, set a goal of buying one extra fruit or vegetable to go with a certain number of meals each week.
- Make the change a daily activity. This can be accomplished by setting a timer to take a certain supplement each day.
- Adopt new habits slowly. If you plan to add foods to your diet, start with one substitution at a time. Instead of going for the bag of chips, prepare a smoothie.
- Meal/Supplement plan. You can never go wrong with having a plan. The idea is to make the plan and stick with it!
Although the world we live in seems to be coming to a major shift, we can still maintain our health, wellness, and sanity. This is all achievable by taking care ourselves from the inside out, especially with the supplements mentioned above. If you find yourself struggling, don’t hesitate to get help.
CHIME IN: What are some ways you’re taking care of your mental health and wellness during this time? Let me know in the comments below!
