IMPORTANT: THIS BLOG DOES NOT CONTAIN MEDICAL ADVICE ONLY GENERAL HEALTH INFORMATION. PLEASE CONSULT YOUR DOCTOR FOR SPECIFIC MEDICAL ADVICE.
Whether you are feeling the "Monday blues" or have been diagnosed with "depression" you may have noticed that there is a connection between how you feel and what you eat. If you haven't made this observation yet you can begin a monthly journal writing down all foods and drinks and how you feel throughout the day. This is one of the best ways to begin to understand your individual triggers. For example, you might notice that you become more "down" just after breakfast and just before dinner. Or you may notice every time you eat fast food your well being suffers. Once you gain awareness around your individual health story you can apply some basic principles of diet for a healthy mind and body. 1. Eat whole foods.
2. Drink water only.
3. Eat a variety of colors--referring to fruits and vegetables.
4. Eat more vegetables than any other food group.
5. Eat a small amount of healthy fats every day--avocado, nuts, seeds, olive oil, coconut oil, butter.
6. Avoid processed foods.
After journaling your mood and diet for one month, apply these 6 principles for three months. Then journal your mood and diet again for one month and see what has changed.
"Health is a journey, not a destination." When making changes to the underlying cause of health ailments it can take some time. A diamond doesn't shine overnight. The stone must be collected, then cut, and finally shaped through multiple stages of polishing. The final result is beautiful but it takes time and effort to get there.
Dr. Michelle Klein and Denise Forster are available for nutritional consultations in office and via phone/Skype. You may call 516-466-1045 to schedule an appointment.
