Brain-Friendly Food Fuels Focus

Studies have repeatedly shown a clear link between one’s diet and mental health. A deficiency in even one key nutrient can impact brain function and mood.
The World Health Organization estimates depression, anxiety and stress leads to a staggering 12 billion lost workdays globally each year, costing a whopping US$1 trillion in lost productivity.

Can we change this narrative? For starters, organizations can offer emotional health resources, promote a healthy work-life balance, and encourage open communication on mental health issues in the workplace. However, we often forget one thing... what we eat has a significant impact on how we think, how we feel, and how productive we are.

Incorporating brain-friendly foods into your daily routine can support mental health, improve focus, and lower anxiety and stress significantly. With a unique workplace wellness program that prioritizes nutrition, employers can see a positive transformation in the moods and productivity of their employees.

Mental Health Impacts Bottom-line

Decision-makers in an organization often look to studies and reports prior to making changes. We have listed some key findings on ROI, productivity loss, and absenteeism that will help clarify the impact of mental health on an establishment’s finances.

• The Rand Corp.'s analysis estimates that a company receives a return of $1.50 for every dollar it spends on its wellness program.
• Research published in Harvard Business Review estimates that moving 10% of its employees from high and medium health risk, to a low risk status, yields an ROI of 6 to 1.
• A study by Mercer suggests that Canadian companies lose an estimated $16.6 billion annually in productivity due to employee absenteeism caused by mental health issues.

3 Essential Nutrients for Emotional Health

The brain is a complex organ. It needs a mix of 50+ nutrients for it to function optimally. Ensure you add these brain-friendly foods to your grocery list!

• Choline:
  This nutrient is a key player in regulating your mood, learning, and memory power. Unfortunately, in America, only 7% of women consume the recommended daily intake of choline. Good sources of choline are eggs, liver, and salmon.
• Vitamin D:
  Often dubbed the "sunshine vitamin," Vitamin D deficiency is rampant in North America. Low levels have been linked to depression and cognitive decline. Include fatty fish, and fortified milk products in your diet to ensure you're getting enough Vitamin D. Those 50 years (or older) need a daily Vitamin D supplement. It is strongly recommended to consult a doctor prior to commencing Vitamin D supplementation.
• Omega-3 Fatty Acids:
  A human brain is comprised of 60% fat. Fatty acids are crucial for producing and keeping your nerve cells healthy, and will assist in the smooth processing of information in the brain, and seamless communication.

Unfortunately, the modern-day diet has more omega-6s (found in corn and soybean oil) than omega-3 fatty acids. Omega-6s compete with omega-3s and take up more space in the cells.

To maintain the optimal ratio of Omega 3 to 6’s, one should regularly consume fatty fish (salmon, sardines), walnuts, and flaxseeds.

Building a Healthier Workforce

The connection between food and mood is undeniable. So, what can we do to create a work environment that fosters mental well-being and peak performance? There are several approaches to consider:

• Education:
  Equipping employees with knowledge about the link between nutrition and brain function empowers them to make informed choices about their diet.
• Accessibility:
  Making healthy options readily available in cafeterias, vending machines, or through meal programs can nudge employees towards brain-friendly choices.
• Culture:
  Promoting a culture of well-being that encourages breaks, healthy meals and snacks, and open conversations about mental health can create a supportive work environment.

Fuel a Thriving Future

Want to see your business grow? Invest in your employees. Prioritize their emotional and physical health. Establish a comprehensive workplace wellness program that prioritizes nutrition to achieve improved emotional health, increased energy and productivity. You can make a futuristic decision to elevate your organization’s bottom line.

Did You Know?

Consuming a diet high in fibre and probiotics will also help optimize your emotional health. All fermented food, plus fibre, is important for our gut health. There is a strong link between our gut health and our emotional health.