TIPS TO FUEL OPTIMISM

Marissa Karp, registered dietitian, founder of MPM Nutrition and nutrition consultant to Icelandic Provisions, says what we eat can shape how we feel and how we handle the day. A nutrient-rich diet builds the physical and mental resilience that optimism thrives on. Food fuels more than our bodies; it influences brain chemistry, boosts mood, and helps us see challenges as temporary and manageable. Keep reading for Marissa's tips to help turn any day into a good day.

5 Nutrition Tips to Boost Your Day and Brighten Your Mood

1. Prioritize Nutrient-Rich Foods: Fill your plate with a rainbow of fruits and veggies, fiber-rich carbs, lean proteins, and healthy fats. These nourishing foods do more than just power your body - they help support brain health, sharpen focus, and keep your mood & energy steady and balanced.
2. Regular Meal Times: Eating consistently stabilizes your blood sugar, helping to avoid energy crashes and mood swings. A steady routine supports both your physical and mental well-being throughout the day.
3. Stay Hydrated: Even mild dehydration can leave you feeling sluggish and a little off. Keeping a water bottle nearby and sipping throughout the day can help you stay energized, clear-headed, and in a better mood. If you tend to forget until the day's almost over, try setting a couple of gentle reminders to help you stay on track.
4. Be Mindful of Added Sugars and Refined Carbs: While sweet treats and refined carbs can be delicious, they can also spike your blood sugar - leading to energy crashes and mood dips later on. To keep things steady, try choosing fiber-rich, whole food carbs throughout the day, and reach for natural sources of sweetness like fruit. And if you're craving something sweet, enjoy it after a balanced meal to help soften the impact on your blood sugar.
5. Practice Mindful Eating: Slow down and be present during meals—when you're eating, just eat! Mindful eating not only enhances your enjoyment of food but also helps you recognize fullness cues and build a healthier, more positive relationship with what's on your plate.

5 Simple Strategies to Make Nutrition a Daily Priority

1. Prep for Success or Do A Little Prep: Aim for a meal prep lite. This means prepping a few basic ingredients - like a couple grains, a protein or two, and some veggies (maybe some raw & some cooked) - that you can mix and match all week. It saves time, keeps meals flexible, and makes it easier to eat well without getting bored or overwhelmed.
2. Schedule your Meals: Try adding meal times and reminders to your calendar. When things get busy, it's easy to lose track. Having meals scheduled takes the guesswork out of eating and helps you avoid those last-minute decisions when hunger really kicks in, setting you up for success.
3. Pack Smart Snacks: Always have nutritious snacks ready to go. Whether it's a handful of nuts or an Icelandic Provisions Skyr yogurt, having easy options on hand keeps you fueled and keeps you satisfied between meals.
4. Make Things Easy on Yourself: Healthy eating doesn't have to be complicated. Use grocery delivery or pickup to save time, and don't forget about the pantry and freezer. Staples like canned beans, frozen veggies, and microwaveable whole grains can be a lifesaver on busy days.
5. Make Nutrition Part of Your Self-Care: Eating well isn't just about physical health—it's an act of self-care. Pay attention to how your food choices make you feel internally—more energized, with a stable mood, and overall better. Prioritizing nourishing meals helps you show up as your best self every day.