Nourishing Pho to Feed Your Body and Soul | Mental Health Recipes

Pho (a beloved Vietnamese soup), in my opinion, is one of the most comforting meals.

As the weather cools off, this recipe is like a warm hug in a bowl. But it’s also got tons of good in it, particularly when it comes to nourishing our mind and soul. 

So, below, we take a closer look at how to make this yummy soulful food at home, as well as why you might want to (beyond its yummy flavors!).

A Nourishing Pho Recipe for Those Fall Days and Nights

Yes, this recipe has a bit of a time commitment.

But this all on its own can contribute to better mental health. The act of creating something that you can enjoy afterward, in terms of both its flavors and nourishment, is rewarding on so many levels.

So, let’s uncover how to make this delicious soup at home!

How Can Pho Improve Your Mental Well-Being?

While the warm, aromatic broth alone can soothe your soul, many of pho’s ingredients have properties that may contribute to improved mental well-being. How? Well, keep reading to find out!

Broth & Your Brain

The foundation of any good pho is its broth. Whether you choose chicken, beef, or vegetable, this steaming liquid is a potent source of nutrients that can support mental health and overall brain health. 

Broths, especially those made from bones, are rich in amino acids. These building blocks of protein play crucial roles in brain function. For example, glycine, found abundantly in bone broth, may help improve sleep quality. Better sleep is strongly linked to improved mood and cognitive function.

Broths also often contain minerals like magnesium and zinc. Magnesium is known for its calming effects and may help reduce anxiety, while zinc is vital for brain health and has been linked to reduced depression symptoms (especially, according to research, when combined with antidepressants). 

Additionally, the high liquid content in pho helps keep you hydrated. As you may already be well-aware of, proper hydration is essential for optimal brain function, affecting everything from mood to cognitive performance.

Ginger Zest for a Mood Boost

Ginger is a key ingredient in pho, and for good reason. This aromatic root packs a powerful punch when it comes to mental health (and then some). 

Ginger’s potent anti-inflammatory compounds may help combat chronic inflammation, which has been linked to depression and other mental health issues. This could potentially improve mood and cognitive function.

Rich in antioxidants, ginger also protects your brain cells from damage caused by free radicals. This protection may help prevent cognitive decline and support overall brain health. Some studies even suggest that ginger may have antidepressant effects, potentially helping to boost mood and alleviate symptoms of depression.

Related Article: Can Northern Thai Dish Khao Soi Elevate Your Mood? | Mental Health Recipes

Cinnamon Offers Your Brain a Bit of Sweetness

That stick of cinnamon in your pho isn't just for flavor. This sweet spice has been used for centuries in traditional medicine and may offer several benefits for mental health!

Cinnamon has been shown to help regulate blood sugar levels. Stable blood sugar is crucial for mood stability and can help prevent the irritability and anxiety that often accompany blood sugar crashes.

Some research suggests that cinnamon may improve cognitive processing, enhancing both attention and memory. Furthermore, cinnamon contains compounds that protect brain cells from damage and could slow the progression of neurological disorders.