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On this World Mental Health Day, I wanted to bring a little focus to the relationship between nutrition and mental health!
1. Nutrient Impact on Mood and Cognition:
Nutrients such as vitamins, minerals, amino acids and fatty acids all play vital roles in the brain's cognitive function.
A well-rounded nutrient rich diet supports neurotransmitter regulation, crucial for emotional stability and well-being.
2. Micronutrients Matter:
Deficiencies in B-vitamins, folate, iron are tied to depression and anxiety due to their role in neurotransmitter synthesis.
3. Gut-Brain Axis:
A healthy gut microbiome can improve mood. Diets rich in fiber and prebiotics supports a diverse gut bacteria population.
The gut-brain axis is a bidirectional communication system. The gut microbiome can influence mood, anxiety, and stress.
4. Inflammation and Mental Health:
Chronic inflammation has been linked to several mood disorders, including depression.
Anti-inflammatory foods like fruits, vegetables and whole grains can reduce the risk of mental health issues.
Diets high in processed foods, sugar and unhealthy fats can promote inflammation and have addictive properties.
5. Eating Habits Impact Mental Health which Impacts Eating Habits:
Mental health and stress can affect eating behavior, leading to over/under eating or making poor nutritional choices.
Conversely, diets low in nutritional value can greatly increase the risk of mental health problems.
6. Weight and Body Image:
Poor body image and societal pressures can affect mental health, leading to disordered eating patterns and depression.
Nutrition and mental health are intimately connected. A well-balanced diet of real whole foods, will provide essential nutrients, support gut health, reduce inflammation that can all positively influence mental well-being. Conversely, mental health issues can influence eating habits and nutritional choices. It is important to take a holistic approach to mental health considering both psychological and nutritional factors to promote overall well-being.
To read more about World Mental Health Day visit:
World Health Organization - https://www.who.int/campaigns/world-mental-health-day/2023
If you or someone you know is in crisis you can dial 988 to be routed to a local crisis line.
National Mental Health Hotline: 1-866-903-3787
For additional Mental Health or Substance Abuse questions or assistance finding care you can contact:
NAMI - https://www.nami.org/help
988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline - https://988lifeline.org/
Heard Alliance - https://www.heardalliance.org/help-hotlines/
Similar to the Food Dance mission of acting more preventatively and proactively to improve health and the environment through
early and ongoing education, but in the Mental Health space. . . here is a link to the MindUp site: https://mindup.org/
Learn about how you can improve your own relationship with food! Join our FREE 5-day workshop! SIGN UP HERE
