In partnership with Kamalaya Holistic Wellness Retreat
The nutritional benefits of food have been long since established, and more recent studies have shown us that on a biochemical level – certain food nutrients can aid the production of hormones and chemicals to improve our mood.
Happy foods
Protein for example has been linked to higher production of mood enhancing dopamine and noradrenaline. Complex carbs can increase serotonin, while vegetables and fruits are high in vitamins, minerals and antioxidants that can boost our feeling of happiness. Some experts refer to our gut microbiome as a second brain, so it makes sense that what we digest is linked to our mental wellbeing.
Foods to eat
The experts at Thailand’s award-winning retreat Kamalaya Koh Samui Wellness Sanctuary & Holistic Spa emphasise the role of food in holistic wellness – highlighting some of the foods you can incorporate into your diet with minimal planning and preparation.
Bananas are rich in vitamin B6 which promotes serotonin to make you feel good, prevents cognitive decline, and reduces mood-related symptoms caused by PMS.
Salmon is rich in two types of Omega-3s that are linked to lower levels of depression by helping to maintain the central nervous system. Omega-3 also plays a vital part in our body’s cell manufacturing, making our hair and skin shiny, giving that glowing appearance.
Nuts and seeds are high in plant-based proteins, healthy fats, Omega-3, and fibre. They provide tryptophan, an amino acid responsible for producing mood-boosting serotonin.
Dark Chocolate (70%+) is packed in antioxidants which help to increase serotonin levels. It is high in health-promoting flavonoids, which increase blood flow to your brain, help reduce inflammation, and boost brain health, all of which may support mood regulation.
Green Tea contains antioxidants that are great mood boosters, as well as have properties that can fight cancer and reduce the risk of other chronic illnesses.
You can discover a selection of wholesome recipes derived from the extensive wellness menu at Kamalaya.
Certain foods can also have a negative impact on mood and should be avoided, with some impacting some individuals more than others.
The world-renowned wellness experts at Kamalaya Koh Samui can provide a fully tailored Nutritional Guidance session to help you kick-start your wellness as part of your island retreat. This session can even be conducted online via Kamalaya Connect.
Meanwhile at Kamalaya Koh Samui, there’s also a menu of results orientated IV Therapy infusions designed to restart the metabolism, detoxify, and achieve several other holistic health goals.
Kamalaya focuses on your journey to lifelong personal wellness. The Enriched Gut programme provides a synergy of holistic tailor-made treatments, therapies and practices that incorporate naturopathy, nutrition, Traditional Chinese Medicine, pranayama breathing, yoga and Ayurveda.
You’ll enjoy sessions such as the Abdominal Organ Therapy, Chi Nei Tsang, private yoga sessions, and more than 22 experiences designed to enrich the entire system.
Programs at Kamalaya vary in length. Choose from 7, 9, 14 or 21 nights of pure holistic indulgence amid the breath-taking beauty of this sanctuary on the coast of Koh Samui.
