We’ve all been there — stressed and sleep deprived, we gulp down caffeine and shovel in fast food in a rush — life happens, and it’s easy to fall into this unhealthy cycle. Thankfully, there’s an easy way to feel better that doesn’t involve slurping down green-looking and greener-tasting smoothies or chomping on a fist-full of kale!
While results from studies are mixed, they do seem to show an association between certain foods and improved mood. The point is, diet is important in every aspect of your well being: sleep, mood, energy levels, clear thinking, and even sex drive.
Here are three essential edibles that can help you on your way:
Water
Why it’s important: Okay, we know you don’t necessarily eat water, but it’s super important to have lots of H2O. Your body is about 60% water and uses it in many ways. Water maintains essential functions such as blood circulation, temperature regulation, and food digestion.
What you need: Guys should replace around 3 litres of water a day, in other words, aim for 5-8 glasses of water a day. Try starting your day off with a fresh glass of water when you wake up!
B Vitamins
Why they’re important: There are eight varieties of Vitamin B. All go by complicated scientific names, but the main point stands – they’re essential for bodily functions like converting food into energy.
What you need: Thankfully, B Vitamins are plentiful in most fibre-rich foods: Fruits, vegetables like peas and beans, and whole-grain breads and cereals. You can easily snack on some beans with your lunch for that extra B Vitamin boost!
Zinc
Why it’s important: This mineral boosts guys’ fertility, sex drive and long-term sexual health.
What you need: Meat and dairy products contain lots of zinc, as do seeds, beans and nuts. Alternatively, you can simply take a zinc supplement for a boost if your diet is lacking. After all, what guy doesn’t enjoy a tasty steak? Silence, that’s what we thought. Cook up a tender T-bone for an awesome dinner that’ll give your body that extra bit of zinc it might need.
You really are what you eat! Remember, healthy foods build healthy bodies.
Sources:
http://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/nutrition-and-healthy-eating/in-depth/water/art-20044256
https://www.psychologytoday.com/blog/evolutionary-psychiatry/201309/zinc-antidepressant
Feeling off?
Start here.
Free tools to help you deal with stress, anxiety, and tough stretches.
