By Ella O., Nutrition Advisor
Learn how to support your mental and emotional wellbeing
Mental Health Awareness Week is an annual event when there is an opportunity for the whole of the UK to focus on achieving good mental health. During this week, the Mental Health Foundation asks us to start conversations about mental health and the things in our daily lives that can affect it. Running for 21 years, this year’s event focuses on our connection with the natural world, and encourages us to spend time in nature.
Now that the weather is getting warmer, most of us have the opportunity to visit parks, gardens, and areas of natural beauty in the countryside or on the coast. If you are not able to get out as much as you would like, remember you can bring nature into your own home, with houseplants and fresh cut flowers to enliven your environment. What else can you do to support your psychological and emotional health (particularly after this challenging year)? *
Deep sleep to replenish body and mind
It is estimated that one in three of us suffer from poor sleep. Chronic lack of sleep may cause us to feel both physically and psychologically unwell. Practise good sleep hygiene by switching off computers and blue-light emitting devices at least one hour before bed. Relaxation rituals such as hot baths with essential oils can help with unwinding from a stressful day.
Nutrition tips to support your psychological & emotional wellbeing
Research has found a link between what we eat and our mood. Our diet and nutritional status can affect our psychological, as well as physical health. The Mental Health Foundation recommends a Mediterranean-style diet – one that includes a wide variety of rainbow-coloured vegetables, whole grains, seafood, fresh fruit, herbs and olive oil. Healthy oils are especially important as research suggests that diets containing omega-3 may help to reduce low mood states in adults.
Nature’s Answer Omega-3 Liquid
Nature’s Answer Liquid Omega-3 is sourced from Deep Sea Fish Oil from the cold, clean waters of the pristine North Atlantic. 1 teaspoon provides 650 mg of EPA and 450 mg of DHA. EPA and DHA support several aspects of health. A great tasting liquid supplement, with natural orange oil, that’s absorbed faster than capsules or pills. Free from heavy metals, toxins, artificial preservatives, sweeteners, sugars and thickeners. Nature’s Answer assures you a formula that is pure, potent and of the highest quality, with a tradition that you can trust.
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Natural Traditions Ahiflower Seed Oil
A true Omega 3 powerhouse, Ahiflower Seed Oil is the most eco-conscious, sustainable way to get the benefits of EPA from a plant-based source – suitable for Vegans and Vegetarians. Selected from the wild, sustainably in the UK, using Non-GMO horticultural practices. Clinical research shows that Ahiflower Seed Oil has up to a 3-4 times greater EPA conversion rate than flax seed oil. It delivers a 3.5 to 1 balance of Omega-3 to Omega-6 and is an excellent source of Gamma-Linolenic Acid (GLA)
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Boost the B Vitamins!
Boosting levels of B vitamins may be useful for those under stress or leading a busy fast-paced lifestyle. Vitamin B12, folate, vitamin B3 and vitamin B1 are all know to contribute to normal psychological function. Symptoms of deficiency may include lethargy, irritability or feelings of depression. Food sources include meat, eggs, pulses, leafy greens and seeds. Vitamin B12 would be low in a diet free-from animal and dairy proteins.
Nature’s Answer Liquid Vitamin B-Complex not only provides an efficient and fast acting supplement, that reaches where it needs to, but also offers the advantage of avoiding hard to swallow pills or capsules. With carefully added antioxidants such as Vitamin C and E, Nature’s Answer high potency B-complex formula provides the perfect blend for your daily needs. A great tasting tangerine formula with Quick-Sorb®, a unique blend of Holistically Balanced botanicals to support fast absorption, supplying the full range of B Vitamins.
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Garden of Life Microbiome Formula Mood +
Emerging science is showing a link between gut and brain health. Beneficial bacteria in our digestive system are involved in the production of important neurotransmitters. Stress can have a detrimental effect on our gut flora, and the simple sugars and refined foods found in our modern diets can create an imbalance within our microbiome.
Microbiome Formula Mood+ provides a unique approach to emotional wellbeing. Formulated by America's brain health expert, Dr David Perlmutter - a board-certified neurologist and fellow of the American College of Nutrition, this probiotic formula provides a guaranteed 50 billion live bacteria, with 16 probiotic strains and 350mg of certified organic ashwagandha with organic blueberries. Ashwagandha is traditionally used in Ayurvedic medicine to support the body's resilience to physiological and psychological demand. Containing two groundbreaking strains of bacteria, L. helveticus R0052 and B. longum RO175 which have been clinically shown to support mood and relaxation.
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For resources and support visit MIND or the Mental Health Foundation website.
Click here to discover more nutritionist-recommended products and tips that will leave you feeling calm and in-control.
* The claims mentioned in this blog are based on clinical research, are not aimed to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease. Food supplements should be used within the framework of a healthy lifestyle and not used as substitutes of a varied and balanced diet.
