Your Brain Is an Organ
People talk about depression and anxiety as though they happen separately from the rest of the body. But the brain is an organ, just like the heart, lungs, liver, or kidneys. When you have heart problems, you may get chest pain, fatigue, shortness of breath or other physical symptoms. When your brain is less than healthy you may develop depression, anxiety, or memory problems.
If your brain is inflamed, undernourished, or exposed to too much stress hormone, it may not function properly.
Depression, Anxiety and Brain Function
Researchers are discovering that depression and anxiety are often linked to inflammation, poor diet, chronic stress, and nutrient deficiencies. This does not mean that every case is caused by these factors, but it does suggest that mental health is closely connected to physical health.
Taking care of your brain means:
- eating a healthy diet,
- getting enough sleep,
- reducing stress,
- exercising regularly,
- and making sure your body has the nutrients it needs.
Mental health is physical health.
Learn more about the connection between inflammation, nutrition, and mental health.
