This ‘Mindfulness Month NZ’: founded by the Mental Health Foundation of New Zealand and The Kindness Institute, let’s investigate diet’s role in our mental health.
You’ll have heard the quote ‘You Are What You Eat.’ In many regards this is true. Please note I am not a health professional, but I have consulted a nutritionist and a naturopath over the years. Both of whom stressed how diet can impact our mental health. Omega 3 fatty acids such as salmon, tuna, sardines, anchovies, plant-based oils, walnuts, flax and chia seeds and dark green leafy veggies have anti-inflammatory properties and aid the transmission of hormones dopamine and serotonin. B group vitamins such as green leafy veggies, legumes, and whole grains, and B12 in fish, beef, lamb, poultry, eggs and milk help regulate neurotransmitters and immune function. Vitamin D present in fatty fish, eggs, dairy foods, and sunlight help with optimal brain function, mood, and critical thinking.
One local Dunedin NZ company I love is Wild Dispensary. Wild Dispensary products promote health and wellbeing. I stopped by their gorgeous shop at 401c Princes Street in Central Dunedin yesterday and met Co-founder Ruth. Wild Dispensary craft herbal formulations using wild and Aotearoa native herbs, many of which come from local growers Vern Paddock Project in Mihiwaka. One of my favourite tried-and-tested products is their ‘Liver Bitters’, which aids with liver health, digestion and hormone support. Bitters can also help with a poor appetite, sluggish digestion, reflux, digestive concerns, nutrient absorption, balancing blood sugar levels, fatigue, and fat digestion.
Wild Dispensary’s ethics are also admirable; they are Living Wage certified, use sustainable harvesting methods, have strict waste audits and a bottle re-use scheme. They also support The Wildlife Hospital – Dunedin.
Photo: Sian Mair.