Working out naturally increases your blood flow. An increase in blood flow, brings more oxygen to the areas of your brain that affect mood, stress, and motivation. Combine both fitness with healthy foods to optimize cognitive function. Think of your body as a sports car. You are not going to put cheap fuel and oil into your sports car. Take pride in the foods you consume!

How Fitness and Nutrition improve mental health:

· Reduces stress / inflammation within the body

· Improves mood and energy levels

· Improves sleep

· Improves focus

For those struggling with depression or just having a hard time enjoying everyday life, you may also be suffering from low levels of serotonin and dopamine. These are two natural chemicals that help your feel relaxed and happy. In addition to many healthy foods stimulating the production of both, research by Harvard Health suggests 90% of our serotonin receptors are in our gut.

Improves Brain Health:

• Fish

• Olive Oil

• Nuts and seeds (such as almonds and pumpkin seeds)

• Veggies like broccoli, spinach, and tomatoes

• Fruits like Blueberries and apples

Negatively Impacts Brain Health:

• Alcoholic beverages

• Pickled foods

• Potato chips and other processed foods

• Coffee and other caffeinated drinks

• Dairy

• Wheat