by Main points
- Australians are eating less vegetables and fruit compared to previous years, according to the latest data from the Australian Bureau of Statistics
- Researchers suggests that eating highly processed foods and sugary drinks can increase a person’s risk of developing depression
- Activities such as preparing meals in advance when you feel good can help you eat more healthily
Australians are eating less fruit and vegetables with a decrease of 14 and 12 grams per person each day, respectively, compared to previous years. Australians are eating 16 per cent more potato chips and 10 per cent more chocolate than five years ago, according to the latest data released by the Australian Bureau of Statistics,
With Dietitians Week recently underway, now is a good time to discuss the importance of nutrition for all Australians, including Australians. 4.4 million Australians they are reported to be living with disabilities.
In one study, 58 percent of women living with a disability was single, compared to 45 per cent of women without a disability.
Challenges of living alone or not in a relationship include difficulty accessing healthy foods due to mobility problems, reduced appetite due to depression or dietary restrictions associated with chronic illness.
Creating a meal for one person can be overwhelming, which makes convenience foods more appealing. However, according to researchers, it is possible to increase the consumption of ultra-processed foods likelihood of developing depression.
More than 22 per cent of Australians have experienced a mental disorder in the past 12 months, according to the latest data from the Australian Institute of Health and Welfare.
Dietitians Australia president Tara Diversi knows that getting the right nutrition information is key to minimizing the risk of mental health concerns.
“Australians need to be supported with food and nutrition guidance to prevent the occurrence of mental health conditions, with evidence showing that eating a diet that is not composed of nutritious foods the risk of developing mood and anxiety,” said Diversi.
However, Ms Diversi is aware of the financial difficulties that some Australians may face when trying to find appropriate support.
“There are limited ways for Australians facing mental health challenges to access nutrition therapy and dietetic services through the Medicare system,” Diversi said.
Although options for accessing accredited dietetic services are limited when money is tight, Australians can make positive choices to assess how best to manage their diet in many ways. The benefits of eating well extend to the rest of the Australian population, not just those struggling with mental health concerns.
According to information from Deakin University, the amount of stress in our lives can affect what we eat and the types of foods we choose. When people are busy, opting for takeaway or convenience foods can seem like a quick fix to hunger.
Associate Professor Susan Torres from Deakin University aware of some challenges Australians may face when choosing foods.
“Research has also shown that people tend to eat more when they are stressed, which leads them to eat foods that are higher in calories but low in nutrients such as vitamins and minerals,” said the Associate Professor Torres.
For people with mental health problems, it can be difficult to get through the day without thinking about what to cook for the next meal.
According to the neurologist Dr. Amy Reichelt, our brain releases dopamine when we eat junk food. Researchers suggest that, as a result, ‘our brain can be overwhelmed by the pleasure of these rewarding foods and in response, the brain adapts and makes more receptors for dopamine’.
Junk food not only provides a short victory of happiness, but they can be addictive and cause long term health issues for example weight gain. Junk food is generally classified as low nutritional value with a high number of calories. Some examples of junk food include cakes, biscuits, sugary drinks and chocolate.
Australians can help avoid the temptation of unhealthy foods by planning weekly meals when they’re feeling low or stressed.
Some of the other helpful ways to make sure you are getting nutritious meals include:
- keeping frozen vegetables at home;
- not shopping when you are too stressed or hungry;
- cooking with others;
- selecting your favorite recipes in advance;
- cooking in bulk;
- order healthy food boxes.
To read more about the impact of nutrition on mental health, read the information online Dietitians Australia Mental Health Evidence Brief 2024 here.
For personalized advice on your diet, go to the Dietitians Australia website to find an accredited dietitian.
Many nutritionists offer concession rates for their services, although this may vary from provider to provider. You may be able to seek financial help from Medicare, the Department of Veterans Affairs, the NDIS or your private health care fund.
If you are struggling with your mental health, support is now available. Lifeline It is a free service available through phone, text or chat online. As well, head space It is a free service through phoneemail or online chat that can be accessed by teenagers and young adults aged 12 – 25.
Do you prepare your meals days in advance? How has this changed your life?
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