A powerful way we can impact our mental health is by changing what we eat. This is under the growing field of nutritional psychiatry. Research shows again and again that processed foods and sugar negatively impacts our mental health whereas foods high in phytonutrients and antioxidants like fruits and vegetables, as well as probiotics and plant-based fats, improve mental wellbeing.
One way to pack in a lot of nutrients and healthy stuff is to make a smoothie that also tastes good. I usually have a huge smoothie for lunch and over the years, have fine-tuned it (with some variation depending on the day!).
Power Probiotic Smoothie:
2 cups of nut milk (I either make almond milk or buy unsweetened original)
1 banana
1/2 cup of plain kefir (grass-fed is best, as it has more nutrients)
1/4 cup of hemp hearts
A handful of spinach or kale (frozen or fresh)
2 scoops of collagen powder
1/4 cup of cacao powder
1 cup of frozen berries
1/2 cup of frozen cauliflower
1 avocado
1 tsp matcha green tea powder
Mix all together in a high powered blender until smooth. You can add more water to make it the right consistency.
This is a filling smoothie and will usually get me through lunch. You can also add nut butter for additional protein and calories.