Research has shown a link between eating well and good mental health. According to the Mental Health Foundation in the United Kingdom these are useful tips to try:

• Eating regularly can stop your blood sugar level dropping, which can make you feel tired and bad-tempered.
• Stay hydrated. Even mild dehydration can affect your mood, energy level and ability to concentrate.
• Eat the right balance of fats. Your brain needs healthy fats to keep working well. They’re found in things such as olive oil, rapeseed oil, nuts, seeds, oily fish, avocados, milk and eggs. Avoid trans fats – often found in processed or packaged foods – as they can have an overall negative effect on health.
• Include more wholegrains, fruits and vegetables in your diet. They contain the vitamins and minerals your brain and body needs for healthy functioning.
• Include some protein with every meal. It contains an amino acid that your brain uses to help regulate your mood.
• Look after your gut health. Your gut can reflect how you’re feeling: if you’re stressed, it can speed up or slow down. Healthy food for your gut includes fruit, vegetables, beans and probiotics.
• Be aware of how caffeine can affect your mood. It can cause sleep problems, especially if you drink it close to bedtime, and some people find it makes them irritable and anxious too. Caffeine is found in coffee, tea, cola, energy drinks and chocolate.