The holiday season tends to be a whirlwind of emotions for most people, especially this year as the world continues to confront a deadly pandemic. Holiday-related stress can seem overwhelming, but studies have shown there are ways to manage your anxiety.
A group of psychologists at the University of Kansas have linked added sugar consumption to metabolic, inflammatory and neurobiological processes that are connected to depressive illness. Holiday foods are often high in added sugars, making them very apt to trigger this response.
Sugary foods give an initial mood boost, but if they are consumed in increased amounts, they can have a negative effect on a person’s mood over time. According to a study published in Science Direct, added sugars can increase inflammation in the body and brain, which can lead to depression, anger or other negative mental conditions.
Avoiding an excess of sugary foods can help boost your mental health especially during the stressful holiday season. However, it is also important to remember it is OK to indulge — just do so in moderation.
Research has shown that guilt and shame regarding diet slip-ups can have a negative effect on mental health. Keep to a balanced diet to achieve optimal mental wellness, but give yourself permission to enjoy holiday treats now and then.
This year has given us all more emotional trauma than we could have ever envisioned. But don’t let stress get the better of you.
After all, taking time to reset your life and share traditions with those you love will help boost your mental health. Even during these trying times, don’t forget the joy of the season.