Watermelon
Cool off with this hydrating, antioxidant rich melon!
Hey MoodFoodie,
Join me in class! Check out my Brain Health Series on MasterClass and learn more about how to holistically take care of your mind.
Are you looking for ways to naturally boost your mood and emotional wellbeing? Are you interested in making healthy choices now that will benefit your health in the future?
Nutritional Psychiatry focuses not only on how specific foods help improve our mood and reduce stress, but also how we can use food to impact our cognitive ability and memory as we age.
Simple adjustments can slowly but steadily become habits you can incorporate for the rest of your life in order to create lasting mental fitness. Each week, I’ll share recommendations here using foods you can add to your diet to support your mental health.
I love bringing you the latest in Nutritional Psychiatry each week to boost your overall well-being. My new book Calm Your Mind with Food is a revolutionary full-body approach to relieving anxiety, including anti-anxiety recipes and meal plan guidelines.
If you haven’t gotten your copy already, get yours here:
US Edition: Amazon | Barnes & Noble | Bookshop | Books-A-Million | Target | Walmart
MOOD FOOD of the Week: Watermelon
Mood: Anxiety
Food: Watermelon
Research has shown that watermelon can help calm the mind because…
It is an excellent source of the antioxidant lycopene which has been shown to support reduced levels of neuroinflammation associated with symptoms of anxiety
Watermelon is also rich in vitamin B6, a nutrient that nurtures the nervous system and provides an improved sense of calm
It is 92% water, which helps you hydrate as you eat! Adequate hydration is associated with an incredible number of health benefits including reduced stress and brain fog and increased focus.
How to add this MOOD FOOD to your diet:
Nothing says summer like watermelon! This fruit is a deliciously refreshing snack on its own or as part of a summer fruit salad. It can also be added to smoothies and is nicely complimented by mint. Although watermelon is a hydrating and nutritious food, it is a source of natural sugars, so those watching their blood sugar levels should make sure to enjoy it with a source of fat or protein, such as a handful of nuts.
This week, as part of my premium subscription, I am sharing my recipe for Watermelon & Blueberry Pops!
How to buy watermelon:
Watermelon can be found in the produce section of grocery stores or markets and is widely available abundantly in farmers markets or local fruit stands. Depending on your location, you may also be able to grow them yourself in your home garden! A trick for picking a ripe and juicy watermelon is to look for one that is round and smooth, with dark green and creamy yellow skin. Avoid those with dull coloring or uneven bumps, which may be unripe.
Wishing you a joyful & calm week,
Dr. Uma Naidoo, MD
NEW: My course on MasterClass is now available!
Struggling with forgetfulness, anxiety, or brain fog? I am thrilled to announce that my new course is now available on MasterClass! Learn science-backed tips from the world’s leading brain experts to keep your mind sharp, while exploring the science of "super aging." Episode 1 of Brain Health is streaming now:
In The News
Live with Kelly and Mark: I love discussing my practice and books as well as a sharing Nutritional Psychiatry tips with you all! Check out my episode of Live with Kelly and Mark linked here!
Poosh: Need convincing to join my MasterClass? My friends at Poosh recently shared some insights (and even one of the recipes!) from my course. Check it out here!
Mind Body Green: Just like there are foods that calm the mind, there are also foods that can do the opposite! In this article I discuss the anxiety triggering foods to avoid.
ABC News: More and more people are discussing the prevalence of digestive troubles. But did you know that this may be stress related? I share tips on addressing digestive issues in this article.
This Week’s Recipe: Watermelon Blueberry Pops
This week’s recipe to accompany our Mood Food is available to premium subscribers. Upgrade now to never miss a recipe or other exclusive content in your inbox!
