BBQ Pulled Chicken Stuffed Sweet Potatoes | Mental Health Recipes

Now that the weather is warming up, there’s nothing that quite marks the start of the season than a good BBQ (or something that resembles a good ol’ BBQ).

These BBQ Pulled Chicken Stuffed Sweet Potatoes have so much to love, including various nutrients that support mental health and well-being, and their undeniably delicious taste!

And here’s some good news for any apartment dwellers: You don’t even need a BBQ to enjoy them!

All you need is a crockpot, oven, and the listed ingredients. Plus, it’s not too much work to throw these together (but do be prepared for some time to let your chicken cook!).

• So, how can you make this yummy dish?
• How does it support your mind and body?

BBQ Pulled Chicken Stuffed Sweet Potatoes for a Taste of Summer

These require very little effort (but also a little bit of patience) to make. But they are so worth it!

Making four servings, this recipe makes enough for a small family or enough for leftovers. You can even double up the recipe if you really want to have some for tomorrow’s lunch.

How Can This Chicken & Sweet Potato Combo Improve Your Mental Wellness?

Let’s break this down by the main ingredients!

Chicken Brings the Protein

Chicken is a great high-quality protein, packing almost 30 grams into each serving of this recipe!

This lean meat contains all the essential amino acids your body needs for neurotransmitter production. In other words, it provides the building blocks your hormones need to function optimally.

Chicken also contains a particularly important amino acid called tryptophan, which contributes to improved serotonin levels. As you may already know, serotonin gives way to a better mood, better sleep, and so much more! But what’s important here is its role in helping you feel good, and by lifting up your mood and improving your sleep, it does just that.

Additionally, chicken contains significant amounts of vitamin B6, essential for proper brain development and function. This vitamin helps your body produce GABA, a calming neurotransmitter that reduces stress - all wins for your mental well-being!

Related Article: Homemade Chicken Soup: What Your Soul Has Been Craving | Mental Health Recipes

Apple Cider Vinegar Supports Your Gut-Brain Connection

Apple cider vinegar supports your gut microbiome, which directly impacts your mental health. The gut-brain axis connects digestive health to mood and cognitive function.

The acetic acid in apple cider vinegar promotes the growth of beneficial bacteria. These good bacteria produce neurotransmitters that influence your mood and stress response.

Apple cider vinegar may further help stabilize blood sugar levels throughout the day. And stable blood sugar prevents mood swings and maintains steady energy levels!

Some research suggests apple cider vinegar can improve insulin sensitivity over time, which may support brain health and may reduce your risk of depression. But it’s worth noting that many of these studies were done on individuals with type II diabetes.

Lastly, apple cider vinegar contains antioxidants that may protect against oxidative stress. This protection helps maintain healthy brain cells and cognitive function as you age.

Sweet Potatoes Provide Steady Brain Energy

Sweet potatoes are one of the best foods you can eat for both your body and mind.

This complex carb is packed with many nutrients that contribute to you feeling your best. For instance, the fiber in sweet potatoes directly impacts that gut-brain axis by supporting a healthy gut microbiome. 

These yummy carbs also have magnesium, which is essential for sleep, relaxation, and more. On top of this, the potassium in this food helps maintain proper nerve functioning.

But the goodness doesn’t stop there.

Sweet potatoes also contain good amounts of B vitamins, beta-carotene (which converts to vitamin A in the body), and vitamin C - all necessary for your mind and body to have ample energy and function as it should.