Self-care looks different for everyone, but one thing that is universal is that self-care is about nourishment--mentally, physically, and emotionally. Nutrition is the foundation of good health. Proper nutrition plays a vital role in your ability to thrive, and prioritizing it is making an investment in yourself, so consider changing the way you think about food and nutrition.

Self-care through good nutrition is about nurturing your body by providing it with the raw materials it needs to stay healthy every day. When you do not eat properly, your body becomes deprived of glucose, resulting in fatigue, headaches, low energy, and an inability to focus. Nutrition also plays a vital role in the body’s ability to create the hormones that control our moods. When your cells are not getting the fuel they need, you might feel irritated, depressed, anxious, or stressed.

When eating mindfully in an environment that is free of distractions and focusing on the food and people, you are enjoying your meal and are more likely to take your time with your food and recognize when you are full so you do not overeat. Eating more slowly and mindfully also improves your digestion, which means you will absorb the nutrients in your food more efficiently.

It is important to include a wide variety of foods in your diet because some have nutrients that boost the mood, while others provide energy, and some help to balance your hormones and still others promote healthy sleep. There is no one specific superfood that is going to give you everything you need. So eat those healthy fats, complex carbs, lean protein, and colorful fruits and veggies to nurture your mind and body.

While balance is important, and you should never deprive yourself of the foods you love, there are a lot of negative health effects associated with sugar and refined carbs. Not only do they contribute to unhealthy weight gain, but they may also be a key factor in depression, heart disease, and possibly even cancer. When you are craving carbs, focus on healthy, complex carbohydrates, such as whole grains, legumes, and starchy vegetables. That way you will be satisfying your carb craving and nourishing your body at the same time.

Your gut is full of tiny microorganisms that play a major role in your mental and physical health, particularly your moods and immune function. When your gut is healthy, you can absorb nutrients from your food more efficiently, which affects every system in the body. Nurture your gut health by eating more probiotic foods, which feed the healthy bacteria in your gut.

It is time to start thinking of food and nutrition as nourishment and fuel for your body. It is all about finding balance: do not beat yourself up for having a slice of cake now and then, just be sure you are eating a variety of healthy foods to balance it out. For more information and inspiration check out the links below.

Resources:

Why Looking After Yourself Starts with a Healthy Diet and Exercise

10 Smart Ways To Make Self-Care A Part Of Every Meal

Good Nutrition is Good Self-Care

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