Having a balanced diet

Eat regularly
Try and eat slow release energy foods i.e. pasta, rice and oats, to prevent low blood sugars that make us feel tired, irritable and depressed.

Stay hydrated
Aim to drink 2 litres or about 8 glasses of different fluids throughout the day.

5 a day
Different coloured fruit and veg have a variety of vitamins and minerals so aim for a colourful plate.

Protein
Amino acids contained within proteins are needed within the brain to help regulate your thoughts and feelings. Proteins are in lean meat, fish, eggs, cheese, peas, beans, lentils, soya, nuts and seeds.

Eat the right fats
Omega 3 & 6 are found in: oily fish, poultry, nuts walnuts and almonds, olive/ sunflower oils, seeds sunflower/ pumpkin, avocados, milk, yogurts, cheese and eggs.

Manage caffeine
It’s a stimulant! Too much can simulate similar symptoms as anxiety including a racing heart, headaches, irritability and poor sleep. So, which is which? Caffeine is in coffee, chocolate, tea and energy drinks. They might give you a quick burst of energy, but the drop is as quick. Aim to reduce caffeine slowly by alternating with decaff and to only have caffeinated drinks in the morning.

For a short video and more information see the Food and Mood video from Mind. For more food facts please visit the Association of UK Dietitians website.