Dr. Uma Naidoo, a Harvard-trained nutritional psychiatrist, is renowned for her expertise in the connection between diet and mental health. As a professional chef and nutritional biologist, Dr. Naidoo integrates her culinary skills with her scientific knowledge to promote a diet that enhances both physical wellness and emotional equilibrium. Known as the MoodFoodMD, she has authored acclaimed books like "Calm Your Mind with Food" and the bestseller "This is Your Brain on Food," and she is also an instructor at MasterClass. With winter upon us, Dr. Naidoo shares her personal dietary choices to maintain a strong immune system and high energy levels during the colder months.
Dr. Naidoo emphasizes the importance of leafy greens in her daily diet. She incorporates them into meals in various forms, such as crispy chips made from baby spinach and kale—her favorite afternoon snack. She also includes fermented foods like sauerkraut, kimchi, miso, plain yogurt, and kefir, which contribute to gut health. The gut houses approximately 70% of the immune system, making its health crucial for overall well-being. Dr. Naidoo underscores that leafy greens are vital in her diet, aiming to consume several servings each day.
Kimchi is another staple in her diet, frequently featured in her daily salads or paired with miso-glazed sweet potatoes—a recipe she developed for her book "This Is Your Brain on Food." The combination of these foods not only satisfies her palate but also supplies essential nutrients that support her gut microbiome. For Dr. Naidoo, maintaining a balanced diet is integral to sustaining mental clarity and physical vitality.
Additionally, Dr. Naidoo highlights the significance of B vitamins, particularly during the winter months, to optimize mood and vibrancy. She suggests supplementing with vitamin B12 or incorporating nutritional yeast into meals for those who opt out of consuming animal products. These nutrients play a crucial role in energy production and maintaining a positive mood, which can be challenging during the darker, colder season.
One of Dr. Naidoo’s cherished rituals is enhancing her afternoon green tea with a splash of lemon. This simple yet effective practice not only adds flavor but also boosts vitamin C intake, further supporting immune function. Her approach to nutrition is practical and rooted in scientific understanding, emphasizing the symbiotic relationship between diet and mental health.
Dr. Naidoo advocates for personalized nutrition and always consults with her doctor before making any dietary changes. This practice ensures that her nutritional choices align with her individual health needs and conditions. She stresses the importance of seeking professional guidance when adjusting one's diet to avoid potential deficiencies or adverse effects.