Feeling Down? Avoid These 10 Foods That Fuel Anxiety and Depression!

1. The Deceptive Nature of Fruit Juice

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Long hailed as a healthier substitute for sugar-filled sodas and synthetic drinks is fruit juice. Many people think it must be good for mental as well as physical health since it comes from natural sources. Still, this common belief cannot be further far from the reality. Although entire fruits are rich in important nutrients and fibre, the juicing process removes most of the beneficial fibre content, therefore producing simply flavoured sugar water. For mental health especially, the lack of fibre in fruit juice is quite troublesome. Promoting a sensation of fullness and controlling blood sugar levels depend on fibre in great part. Without it, fruit juice's inherent sugars quickly enter the bloodstream and cause a sharp increase in blood glucose levels. Often confused for a "healthy" pick-me-up, this rapid rise in blood sugar can cause a transient increase in energy and mood. This spike is fleeting, though, and usually comes followed by an as quick collapse. Often called a "sugar crash," this crash can seriously affect cognitive ability as well as emotions. People may have irritation, tiredness, trouble focusing, and even signs of worry or sadness as blood sugar levels fall. Furthermore, a rapid drop in blood sugar might set off strong appetites for more sugary meals, therefore starting a vicious cycle of intake and crashes. Fruit juice is not the solution for individuals trying to better their mental health by means of dietary decisions. Rather, choose whole fruits, which have the same natural sugars but also benefit from fibre in slowing down sugar absorption. If you want a sweet drink, think about creating a smoothie using entire fruits and veggies. This helps you to keep the fibre count and even include other healthy components for extra nutrition like Greek yoghurt or chia seeds. In terms of mental health and hydration, water should ultimately always be first option. Appropriate brain function depends on water; it also helps control mood and supports general cognitive ability. If basic water seems boring, consider adding pieces of fresh fruit or herbs to provide a natural, sugar-free taste enhancement. You are supporting more consistent moods throughout the day and steady energy levels by giving water and whole fruits top priority over fruit juice.