Mood Swings or Meh Days? It Could Be What You’re Eating
Have you been feeling more anxious, low-energy, or just not like yourself lately?
It’s easy to chalk it up to stress, hormones, or lack of sleep—but there may be something else going on, something right on your plate.
A brand-new meta-analysis (that’s a big-picture review of 17 different studies involving over 385,000 people!) just confirmed a powerful connection:
Eating more ultra-processed foods is associated with a 50% higher risk of depression and anxiety symptoms.
Yes, 50%. That’s not a small increase—that’s a red flag.
What Are Ultra-Processed Foods?
Ultra-processed foods go far beyond convenience. These are products made mostly from substances not typically used in home cooking: think artificial flavors, preservatives, emulsifiers, and added sugars. Common examples include:
Chips and crackers
Packaged sweets and snack bars
Sugary drinks or artificially sweetened beverages
Fast food and frozen meals
Flavored yogurts or instant noodles
They’re quick, tasty, and everywhere—but not exactly brain food.
The Food–Mood Connection
From a holistic perspective, our brains are deeply connected to what we eat. Real, whole foods provide the nutrients your brain and body need to regulate mood, manage stress, and support overall mental health.
When ultra-processed foods dominate your plate, they crowd out the more nourishing choices—and over time, that imbalance can start to show up as mood swings, anxiety, low energy, and even depression.
Food isn’t just fuel—it’s information for your brain and body.
One Simple Step to Support Your Mental Health
If you’re ready to feel more balanced and intentional with how you eat, here’s a great place to start:
👉 Try one “whole food swap” a day.
Choose one ultra-processed food you normally reach for and swap it for a whole-food option. For example:
Instead of chips → sliced cucumber with hummus
Instead of a protein bar → a hard-boiled egg and fruit
Instead of soda → sparkling water with lemon or lime
Instead of sugary cereal → plain Greek yogurt with berries and chia seeds
No need to overhaul everything. Start small, stay consistent, and you’ll feel the shift.
Final Thought
This isn’t about perfection. It’s about intention.
Your food choices affect more than just your waistline—they impact your mood, energy, and how you show up in the world. If you’ve been feeling off, consider looking at what’s been on your plate lately. Your brain just might thank you.
Need help making better choices without the overwhelm?
Let’s talk. Nutrition doesn’t have to feel confusing or restrictive—I’ll help you make it sustainable and personalized to you.
