These Foods Will Help Maintain Your Mental Health In Nigeria

Nigerians are faced with one challenge or the other to stay alive and have a good relationship with everyone around them. Good foods therefore help us to battle and help us fight all of these challenges, more importantly, they are easily accessible for us to get. fresh and nourishing.

Maintaining good mental health is essential, and nutrition plays a significant role in supporting it. Here are some foods to eat to promote mental well-being and how to incorporate them into your diet in Nigeria:

Leafy Greens: Leafy greens like spinach, ugu (pumpkin leaves), and ewedu (jute leaves) are rich in vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. Include these greens in your meals regularly, either in soups, stews, or sautéed as a side dish.

Fatty Fish: Fish like mackerel, catfish, and tilapia are readily available in Nigeria. Opt for fresh or frozen varieties, and include them in your diet at least twice a week. Grill, bake, or stew the fish for a healthy and delicious meal.

Nuts and Seeds: Snacks on nuts like peanuts, almonds, and cashews, which are readily available in Nigeria. Add them to your breakfast cereal, yogurt, or salads for an extra boost of nutrients. Chia seeds and flaxseeds can be sprinkled on smoothies or oatmeal for added nutritional value.

Fruits: Nigeria is blessed with an abundance of fruits such as bananas, oranges, watermelons, and pineapples. Incorporate a variety of fruits into your diet to enjoy the benefits of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants they provide.

Yogurt and Fermented Foods: Yogurt is widely available in Nigeria, and you can find locally made fermented foods like ogi (pap) and akamu (cornmeal) easily. These foods promote a healthy gut, which has a positive impact on mental health. Enjoy them as part of your breakfast or as a snack.

Whole Grains: Choose whole grains like brown rice, unprocessed maize (corn), and locally made millet or sorghum-based foods. These grains are rich in fiber, which aids digestion and supports a stable mood.

Legumes: Beans, lentils, and cowpeas (black-eyed peas) are common in Nigerian cuisine. They are excellent sources of plant-based protein, fiber, and nutrients that contribute to mental well-being. Incorporate them into soups, stews, or salads for a wholesome meal.

Remember that a balanced diet is essential for good mental health, so try to include a variety of these foods in your daily meals. Additionally, staying hydrated by drinking plenty of water is crucial for overall well-being, including mental health.

Alongside a healthy diet, engage in regular physical activity, manage stress, and get enough restful sleep to promote optimal mental health.

If you have specific dietary needs or health concerns, consider consulting a registered dietitian or healthcare professional for personalised advice and guidance.