The connection between mental well-being and nutrition

June 29, 2021 - Defence Stories

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Over the past year, you may have experienced changes in your mood and turned to “comfort foods” to feel better. Perhaps, you’ve chosen less-than-healthy meals for lunch and have felt lethargic during your day and at meetings. Who hasn’t experienced the mid-afternoon slump from indulging too much? Working virtually has led some of us to develop new bad habits, for instance, reaching into the fridge or pantry for an unhealthy snack before or after every meeting.

According to the World Health Organization (you are now leaving the Government of Canada website), choosing healthier options is often linked to stronger immune systems, lower risk of diabetes and cardiovascular disease, and longevity.

Whatever side you fall on, what you eat may be impacting your mood, energy level, and even your productivity. The quality of our diet influences our moods and there are psychological, biochemical and physical connections linking what we eat to our brain health.

Ways to maximize your mental well-being through nutrition

Would you like to learn more about how your brain and physical health are affected by what you eat? For more information on this topic, join the Total Health Program for a virtual webinar on July 6 (english) and July 7 (french) titled “Feed your Brain Well= Feel Better: Promoting mental well-being through nutrition” with Strengthening the Forces’ Nutritional Wellness Educator, guest speaker Pam Hatton, . RD, MSc.

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Programs and resources available for Defence Team Members

The Employee Assistance Program (EAP) and Canadian Forces Member Assistance Program (CFMAP) are here to help public service employees and CAF personnel, families and veterans cope with professional or personal challenges that may be impacting their health and well-being. If you find yourself needing a helping hand or simply wanting to talk to someone, the DND/CAF have resources available to help. You can also reach out to the EAP, the Mental Health and Well-Being Office, or the Office of Disability Management.

Subscribe to the EAP distribution list to stay informed on mental health and wellness topics, learn about upcoming webinars, and much more.

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