Try These Baked Falafels for Calm and Clarity | Mental Health Recipes

Who doesn’t love falafels from time to time? Plus, if you’re doing Meatless Mondays (or anything similar), perhaps this is a recipe you want to try! 

And you don’t need to worry about whether it’s going to be enough food - with this many chickpeas, you’ll definitely be filling up. On top of this, there’s lots to love here when it comes to your mood, mental clarity, and mental health. 

Baked Falafels for Your Next Meatless Monday

Meat doesn’t have to be the only protein on your plate. In fact, some research suggests that plant-based proteins may offer added benefits for long-term health. 

For one, they come packaged with fiber, antioxidants, and essential micronutrients that support steady energy and gut health—two key foundations for mental well-being. Below, we take a closer look at what this means and how you can make this yummy falafel recipe!

How These Falafels Contribute to Better Mental Health

While we often think about food in terms of physical health, the connection between what we eat and how we feel mentally is just as powerful.

As such, this Baked Falafel recipe is packed with ingredients that science suggests can support your mood, cognitive function, and overall mental well-being. 

So, let’s explore how each key component contributes to a calmer, clearer mind for you.

Chickpeas Offer Plenty of Nutrients

Chickpeas form the foundation of these falafels, delivering a balanced mix of plant-based protein and fiber that keeps you full and energized. This combination supports steady blood sugar levels, helping to prevent the energy dips and irritability that can impact mood throughout the day.

Beyond macronutrients, chickpeas are rich in folate—a B vitamin essential for producing serotonin, dopamine, and norepinephrine (the neurotransmitters that regulate mood and emotional well-being).

Low folate levels have been linked to higher risks of depression and cognitive decline, making chickpeas a powerful ally for brain health.

They also provide a natural source of magnesium. Magnesium helps regulate the stress response and supports better sleep—two vital elements for maintaining focus, calm, and mental clarity. 

When combined, the protein, fiber, and micronutrient profile of chickpeas creates a nourishing foundation for both physical and emotional balance.

Onion That Won’t Make You Cry

Red onions might make you cry during prep, but they’re worth it for your mental health. 

These pungent vegetables are rich in quercetin, a flavonoid antioxidant that research suggests may help reduce inflammation in the brain. Chronic inflammation has been linked to depression, anxiety, and cognitive decline, so incorporating anti-inflammatory foods like onions can be a protective measure for long-term brain health.

Onions also contain prebiotic fibers that feed beneficial gut bacteria. This contributes to a healthier gut-brain axis—the bidirectional communication between your digestive system and your brain. 

In fact, a healthy gut microbiome has been associated with reduced anxiety, improved mood, and better stress resilience. 

Garlic for Flavor and More!

Garlic has loads to offer.

For instance, it contains S-allyl cysteine, a compound that has been shown to have neuroprotective properties and may help reduce oxidative stress in the brain. This oxidative stress is thought to contribute to mental fatigue, brain fog, and mood disorders.

Moreover, garlic has been found to influence the production of serotonin, the “feel-good” neurotransmitter. Some studies also suggest that regular garlic consumption may help reduce symptoms of anxiety and depression, though more research is needed to fully understand these mechanisms.

Cumin: The Traditional Spice That Has Stood the Test of Time

Cumin goes beyond mere flavor!

The teaspoon of cumin in this recipe contains iron, a mineral essential for cognitive function and mental energy. Iron deficiency, even in mild forms, can lead to difficulty concentrating, mental fatigue, and mood changes. 

Cumin also contains antioxidants that may help protect brain cells from damage and support memory function.

Tahini Offers Even More

Made from sesame seeds, tahini is exceptionally rich in B vitamins, particularly B1 (thiamine) and B6, which are important for neurotransmitter production and nervous system function. 

In fact, B vitamin deficiencies have been linked to increased anxiety, depression, and cognitive difficulties.

Tahini also provides a good dose of healthy fats, including omega-3 fatty acids that support brain health and may help reduce symptoms of depression.

The zinc content in tahini deserves special mention too—this mineral plays a vital role in regulating the body’s stress response and has been shown to have antidepressant effects in some studies.

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