Research has found that what you eat directly affects the structure and function of your brain and, ultimately, your mood.

Eating high-quality foods that contain lots of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants nourishes the brain and protects it from oxidative stress — the “waste” produced when the body uses oxygen, which can damage cells.

Your brain has difficulty getting rid of substances that come from processed or refined foods. Diets high in refined sugars, for example, promote inflammation and oxidative stress. Research has found a link between a diet high in refined sugars and impaired brain function — and a worsening of mood disorders such as depression and anxiety.

Many studies have also found that eating a healthy diet increases good bacteria in your gut, and a healthy gut is linked to better brain function and mood.

The books in this section will give you ideas and recipes to create the optimal diet for your mental and physical health.