Healthy eating

Some foods which contain additives, preservatives or lots of sugar will make us feel good initially, but over time will make us drowsy or lethargic, lead to poor concentration and mood swings. They can also leave our immune system weakened and too much sugar can increase the risk of diabetes.

Other foods actually contain natural boosters to our immune system and act as natural antidepressants. A lack of some fish oils has been linked to an increased risk of schizophrenia and other mental illnesses.

Foods that are said to help people de-stress include:

• celery
• avocados
• cabbage
• berries
• cucumbers
• brown rice

No-one enjoys being sick or stressed, so it’s a good idea to keep away from food which can make you that way. Instead focus on getting lots of the food which keeps you well and happy. Only you can know which foods make you stressed or irritable or depressed in the long-run. It might be a good idea to keep a diary of what you eat and then check back and avoid what seems to make you feel bad and eat more of what makes you feel good. Download an example of a diary you could use. (31 kb)