Borscht for the Brain: Can This Traditional Polish Soup Improve Your Mental Well-Being? | Mental Health Recipes

I first tried borscht at an ex-boyfriend’s family dinner. His grandmother was Polish and always made the best food.

I remember I’d never thought fondly of beets until this meal (Now, I actually love them, but I get it; it’s not everyone’s taste!).

The dollop of sour cream was the cherry on top. So, now, whenever I see borscht on the menu, I’m always tempted to give it a try.

Borscht, with its signature ruby color blends together various vegetables, broth, and, often, a scoop of sour cream. The result? A harmonious blend that warms the body and soothes the soul! While beets might not sound like a comforting meal, this soup truly is delicious.

But beyond its comforting warmth and satisfying depth, borscht also has an array of nutrients and ingredients known for their positive impact on mental well-being. So, how can this soup comfort your mind, body, and soul?

In this article, we explore how to make it and the positive mental impact it can have.

The Best Borscht Soup

Soup is usually a pretty easy meal to make.

But it does take a bit of time as well. So, if you’ve got time and aren’t edging on hungry quite yet, this can be a great go-to meal. It also makes ample amounts of soup if you want to have a meal that’s easy to heat up in the coming days. 

So, let’s get cooking!

The Incredible Power of Beets for Your Mental Well-Being

Beets are a vibrant root vegetable. But it’s not just their color that’s appealing!

They are also loaded with mental health benefits. So, here’s what you should know:

Beets Can Support Brain Health

Beets are packed with various nutrients that are beneficial for brain health, including folate, manganese, potassium, and vitamin C. 

For instance, folate is crucial for the maintenance of mental and emotional health; it plays a key role in managing levels of neurotransmitters that influence mood, such as serotonin, dopamine, and norepinephrine. In fact, studies show that a folate deficiency can actually lead to an increased risk of depression.

Related Article: Have You Ever Wondered How Much Your Diet Affects Your Mental Health?

Beets Are High in Nitrates

Beets are naturally high in dietary nitrates, which the body converts into nitric oxide. So, what’s the deal with this compound?

Well, nitric oxide helps improve blood flow throughout the body, including the brain. Enhanced blood flow to the brain can lead to improved cognitive function, including better reaction times and heightened attention. It can also help us feel more alert and less fatigued, leading to a better overall mood.

Beets Have Plenty of Antioxidants

Beets are rich in antioxidants, such as betalains, which give them their distinctive deep red color. 

Antioxidants help combat oxidative stress and inflammation in the brain, which are factors that can contribute to the development of neurodegenerative diseases and cognitive decline. By fighting oxidative stress, beets help protect the brain against age-related damage and support brain and mental health.

Beets Might Improve Your Mood

The presence of tryptophan in beets, although in smaller amounts compared to other sources, is noteworthy. Tryptophan is an amino acid that the body uses to produce serotonin, a neurotransmitter that contributes to feelings of well-being and happiness. 

They Give You an Easy Energy Boost

Despite their relatively low-calorie content, beets are a great source of natural sugars and carbohydrates.

In this way, they can provide a steady source of energy. This energy boost is important not just for physical activities but also for mental tasks, helping improve concentration, productivity, and mental stamina—without the crash associated with refined sugars.

Related Article: 6 Helpful Mental Health Supplements to Enrich Your Diet