The effect that food choices have on mental health is sometimes called the

‘Food-Mood Connection.’ There is not very much research in this area; 

we don’t know all the answers, but we do know a few things.

We know that:

·       A healthy diet may help your child feel better emotionally and physically

·       Brain chemicals (neurotransmitters) such as serotonin, dopamine, and norepinephrine affect the way we think, feel, and act.

·       Food choices can influence our sleep schedules

·       Food and brain chemicals work together to give us energy throughout the day

·       Eating a variety of healthy foods is important for mental health

As a parent, you can help your child/teen to:

·       Eat breakfast every day and avoid skipping meals. If mornings are too busy, maybe try preparing the breakfast for the week ahead of time.

·       Limit highly processed foods, fast food, high sugar drinks, and high fat, sugar, and salt snack foods

·       Drink water! Dehydration affects your energy level and mood

·       Limit caffeine from coffee, tea, soft drinks, and energy drinks.  These drinks can make you feel anxious, nervous, or depressed.  Limiting them may also help promote better sleep

·       Be involved and take part in family meals. This helps create family connections. For example- all eating dinner together at the table

·       Learn what to eat, how much to eat and how to prepare healthy foods

·       Model healthy eating habits, a healthy weight and a positive self-image