At Pow Food, we understand that workplace wellbeing goes far beyond step challenges and yoga classes. Mental health is a key pillar of overall health, and what we eat has a direct impact on how we feel, think, and perform. With one in four adults in England experiencing a mental health problem each year, prioritising supportive nutrition at work has never been more essential.
As a catering provider driven by nutritional science, our workplace menus are thoughtfully created to support both physical and mental wellbeing. Here are five evidence-based ways we help support mental health through food:
1. Balance Blood Sugar
Keeping blood sugar levels stable can improve mood, concentration, and reduce feelings of irritability or anxiety. Meals rich in protein, healthy fats, and fibre help prevent the spikes and crashes that can affect focus and energy levels. Our meals are carefully crafted to balance macronutrients—think slow-release carbs like sweet potatoes paired with lentils, quinoa, or lean proteins and healthy fats.
2. Prioritise Gut Health
Your gut and brain are connected through what’s known as the gut-brain axis. A healthy digestive system supports mental clarity, mood regulation, and resilience to stress. We incorporate gut-loving ingredients like fermented foods, flaxseeds, apples, and diverse vegetables to help nourish your microbiome naturally.
3. Increase Omega-3 Intake
Omega-3 fatty acids are vital for healthy brain function and have been shown to help reduce symptoms of anxiety and depression. Our menus feature ingredients such as flaxseeds, chia seeds, and walnuts, along with oily fish like trout and mackerel to ensure teams get a steady dose of brain-boosting fats.
4. Reduce Ultra-Processed Foods
Highly processed foods can lead to mood dips, inflammation, and fatigue. At Pow Food, we say no to artificial additives, refined sugars, and preservatives. Our workplace catering offers 100% fresh, whole-food meals made from high-quality, organic ingredients.
5. Get Enough Vitamin D
Especially important during the darker months in the UK, vitamin D plays a role in regulating mood and warding off low energy. We offer meals that incorporate vitamin D-rich ingredients like mushrooms exposed to sunlight, eggs, fortified dairy alternatives, and sustainably sourced oily fish.
Top Foods for Mental Wellbeing in the Workplace:
- Leafy Greens – spinach, kale, and rocket
- Flaxseeds & Walnuts – rich in Omega-3s and fibre
- Fermented Foods – kimchi, sauerkraut, and yoghurt
- Dark Chocolate – 70%+ cocoa for a natural mood lift
- Oily Fish – such as trout and mackerel for sustained brain fuel
Support Mental Health in Your Workplace with Pow Food
Our nutritionist-designed workplace menus are more than just delicious—they’re functional, supporting energy, focus, and emotional wellbeing. Whether you're planning an employee wellbeing day or simply want to fuel your team better every day, Pow Food offers tailored corporate catering solutions that empower healthier minds and bodies.
🔗 Explore our workplace catering options today at https://powfood.co.uk/pages/healthy-office-catering