Australians are increasingly aware of the link between food and mood, but a new survey reveals that almost half of us aren’t making the dietary changes needed to boost our wellbeing.
The survey, conducted by one of the world’s leading food and nutrition tracking app MyFitnessPal, found that 64% of Australians have noticed changes in their mood after eating certain foods. Despite this awareness however, nearly half (49%) are not taking steps to adjust their diet to improve their mood and overall wellbeing.
The survey highlights a growing understanding among Australians about how nutrition affects mental and emotional health. In fact, 72% of respondents recognise the connection between what we eat and how we feel.
However, the challenge lies in translating this knowledge into practical, meaningful changes to our eating habits.
“There is no doubt that a nutrient-rich diet plays a crucial role in supporting our mood and overall health,” said Melissa Jaeger, RD, Head of Nutrition for MyFitnessPal. “Incorporating a variety of fruit, vegetables, lean proteins, healthy fats, and fibre-rich grains is essential for boosting wellbeing. That said, understanding the real impact of food on our mood and energy can be difficult unless we track what we’re eating.”
Foods That Impact Mood and Energy
The survey also identified specific food groups that have a negative effect on mood and energy levels. Alcohol (88%), fast food (86%), and sugar (76%) topped the list of culprits.
Emotions like stress (47%), sadness (43%), and being upset (42%) were found to be linked to overeating, while feelings of exhaustion (45%), anger (43%), and upset (37%) were more likely to result in eating less.
These findings echo the results of a global white paper from MyFitnessPal, in collaboration with Dr. Jenny L. Taitz, Psy.D., titled Food & Mood. The study found that while some people cope with stress by eating more, others may experience negative emotions like tension, anger, and fatigue when they eat less.
Tracking Food for Better Mood and Health
The new analysis reinforces the growing evidence of a connection between diet and mental health. It also emphasises the potential of food tracking as a tool to help individuals understand the relationship between their food choices and emotional wellbeing. By tracking food intake, people can make more informed decisions that can lead to improved mood, energy levels, and overall health.
