You Are What You Eat: How Food and Well-Being Are Connected

(By Chris)

The saying "you are what you eat" has become a core part of how I approach food, and the more I’ve reflected on it, the more I’ve realised just how true it is. What we put into our bodies shapes not just our physical health, but our mental state as well. I’ve experienced this first-hand since transitioning to a plant-based lifestyle, and I believe it’s something worth exploring in greater depth.

The Role of Digestion in Food and Well-Being

It wasn’t until I started paying more attention to my diet that I really began to understand how much digestion affects everything else. Digestion isn’t just about breaking down food—it's the foundation for how our body absorbs nutrients, how well our immune system functions, and even how our brain operates.

Both Jill and I read a couple of eye-opening books—Gut: The Inside Story of Our Body's Most Underrated Organ (by Giulia Enders) and The Diet Compass (by Bas Kast)—which gave us a new perspective on the importance of gut health. We learned that about 70-80% of our immune system is located in our gut, and our gut bacteria play a huge role in our mood, stress levels, and even our ability to focus.

In fact, I was fascinated by the idea that our gut is often referred to as the "second brain," because it produces many of the same neurotransmitters that our brain does, including serotonin, the "feel-good" hormone. This helped me realise that improving gut health was about more than just digestion—it was about my overall well-being. After going vegan, I noticed a big difference: no more bloated, heavy feeling after meals, more energy throughout the day, and my skin started to clear up.

We also watched the Netflix documentary Hack Your Health, which delves into the science of gut health and how what we eat can influence our microbiome. It became clear to me that the quality of food we consume impacts how well our digestion functions, and ultimately, how we feel both physically and mentally.

The Mind-Body Connection: How Food Affects Well-Being

What struck me most after adopting a plant-based diet was how closely linked food, digestion, and mental well-being really are. Before, I hadn’t given much thought to the connection between my gut and my overall mood, but now it’s something I’m much more aware of. When I eat foods that are rich in nutrients—plant-based, whole foods—I feel more energised, more focused, and generally lighter.

Jill, on the other hand, experiences an even stronger connection between food and her mental state. She notices that when she eats less fresh, more processed foods, it affects her mood and energy levels. Through her, I’ve seen how food choices can influence not just digestion but also mindset and emotions. While I personally don’t feel a strong negative shift after the occasional processed meal, I’ve learned how much of an impact it can have on others. Watching Jill go through this cycle has made me even more conscious of how food affects us beyond just the physical.

Nutrient Density Over Calories

One of the most important lessons we’ve learned throughout this journey is that it’s not about counting calories, but about choosing nutrient-dense foods. I’ve come to realise that what truly fuels my body is food that is rich in vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. Whole plant foods—vegetables, fruits, legumes, nuts, and seeds—provide not only the energy we need but also the building blocks for optimal health.

Eating colourful meals, full of variety, is a key part of this. At Planticious Bliss, we love the motto "Eating the Rainbow." It’s something we practice in our own lives and encourage others to do as well. The more colours we incorporate into our meals, the more nutrients we’re getting, and the better we feel overall. It’s not about restricting foods—it’s about abundance. When I look at a plate full of vibrant veggies, I know I’m nourishing my body and mind.

A delightful dish featuring roasted cauliflower on a bed of creamy turmeric hummus, garnished with tangy pickles, vibrant pesto, and a smooth tahini drizzle.

Conclusion

Looking back, the shift to a plant-based lifestyle has been a journey of discovery, and it’s something that has deeply influenced both my body and mind. We didn’t make the change overnight; it was a gradual process that opened our eyes to the deeper implications of the food industry and the importance of being conscious about what we consume. But the results have been undeniable.

I’m not here to say that everyone needs to go vegan—far from it. What we’ve come to realise is that the key is awareness. Being mindful of the foods we choose to eat can have a huge impact on our health, mood, and energy levels. It’s not about perfection, but about making small, conscious choices that align with how we want to feel and live.

So, what’s on your plate today? And how does it make you feel?