Infuse Issue 18 February 2023 | Page 26

One of the things I love most about this dietary pattern is that it is not just about what you eat , but how you eat . Mealtimes are given priority , especially the main meal of the day , and cooking is seen as important . There is an emphasis on using local foods in season and traditional cooking techniques , as well as sitting together to eat . Plus , you can enjoy a glass or two of wine should you wish . Wine is indeed consumed traditionally , but usually only with meals and not to excess . Such a relaxed and pleasant setting to eat is good for your digestion as stress levels come down , you tend to eat slower as you chat at the same time and you allow time for your stomach to begin to empty before rushing off to the next activity .
Eating this way has the potential to improve your mood , power your brain performance , improve your long-term brain health … and your microbiome is , as usual , at the heart of the story , facilitating many of these effects . Feed your gut bugs to help look after your brain and maybe even boost your happiness at the same time .
© Dietitian Connection 26 Infuse | February 2023