Nutritional Psychiatry: The Power of Food on Physical and Mental Wellbeing

Nutritional psychiatry is an emerging field that explores the intricate relationship between diet, nutrition, and mental health. While the impact of food on physical health is well-established, research suggests that our dietary choices also influence our mental well-being. This article will introduce you to the concept of nutritional psychiatry and offer suggestions for selecting foods that have been shown to be essential in maintaining good mental health. Additionally, it explores the brain-gut connection and the hypothesized link between food and emotion. 

What is Nutritional Psychiatry? 

Nutritional psychiatry is a specialized field of study that focuses on the role of nutrition in mental health. It recognizes that a balanced and nutrient-rich diet is essential for optimal brain function and emotional wellbeing.  An emphasis is placed on choosing whole, unprocessed foods and avoiding unhealthy alternatives. By following these recommendations, research suggests we might be able to help prevent mental health conditions and maintain emotional well-being.

What are Macronutrients and Micronutrients? 

A macronutrient is a type of nutrient that is required in significant quantities by the human body to provide energy, support growth, and maintain overall health. Macronutrients fall into three basic categories: carbohydrates, proteins, and fats. Carbohydrates and fats are the main source of energy for the body. Proteins can also be used for energy, although their primary role is in tissue growth and repair, supporting enzyme and hormone production, and maintaining a healthy immune system. 

Micronutrients, such as vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, are typically what we see for sale in a pharmacy or vitamin shop. Although there are many manufactured brands of micronutrients they are best consumed in whole fruits, vegetables, and other natural sources.  

While macronutrients make up the bulk of our diet, micronutrients are needed to support the various chemical reactions that are constantly occurring in our bodies. 

What is the Role of Macronutrients on Mental Health?

Each type of macronutrient has a unique role in the general health of our nervous system and mood regulation. Complex carbohydrates, such as whole grains, legumes, and fruits, serve as the primary source of energy for the brain. Consuming these foods promotes stable blood sugar, and mood stability. When the body does not have the appropriate amount of fuel, it begins to release chemicals that activate the fight or flight response. This produces jitteriness, anxiety, and poor mental acuity. A stable fuel source also plays a role in serotonin production and regulation. Serotonin, often called “the happy hormone” has been found to promote feelings of wellbeing and calm and decrease in both depression and anxiety disorders.

Proteins play a crucial role in the production of neurotransmitters, the chemicals that the nerves in our brain use to communicate with one another, such as serotonin, dopamine, and epinephrine. Consuming high quality protein sources such as lean meats, fish, eggs, and legumes are far superior to consuming processed foods.  

Fats, such as those found in fatty fish, walnuts, flaxseeds, and Omega-3 fatty acids, have been linked to improved mental health outcomes. These fats possess anti-inflammatory properties and play a vital role in brain development, function, and mood regulation. Fat is a major component of myelin, the sheath that insulates the nerve cell and facilitates communication between nerves. It is also a critical component of all cell membranes and the health of our nervous system.  In fact, several studies including this recent 2023 study of Spanish University students show that increased fish consumption is associated with lower rates of depression.

What is the Role of Micronutrients on Mental Health?

Vitamins are essential for brain health and the synthesis of neurotransmitters. They are found in leafy greens, whole grains, eggs, and lean meats. Vitamins such as B12, B6, Folic acid, and thiamine are used by the body to create serotonin, dopamine, and epinephrine. These are critical to our survival and the maintenance of healthy mood and nervous system. Prescription antidepressants can increase the availability of these chemicals, but vitamins are needed for their production.  Deficiencies in these vitamins are associated with an increased risk of depression and cognitive decline.  

Minerals such as magnesium, zinc, and iron play critical roles in brain function and mental health. Consuming magnesium-rich foods like nuts, seeds, and leafy greens has been shown to decrease anxiety and improve sleep quality. 

Antioxidants are found in colorful fruits and vegetables, for example, berries, spinach, and even dark chocolate. They help protect cells from oxidative stress and inflammation, both of which are thought to be implicated in depression and other mental health disorders.

Brain-Gut Connection and Food-Mood Connection

The gut microbiota is the diverse community of microorganisms residing in our intestines. The gut microbiome communicates with the brain through various pathways, including the Vagus nerve and the production of neurotransmitters. Consuming a varied diet rich in fiber, prebiotics, and probiotics supports a healthy gut microbiome.

Serotonin Production

Serotonin is primarily produced in the gut and relies on the healthy microbiome for optimal production. As discussed above, diet influences serotonin levels, and low levels have been associated with depression. Foods high in the amino acid tryptophan, such as turkey, eggs, and nuts, can promote serotonin synthesis might impact improve mood.

Conclusion

Nutritional psychiatry is an exciting and rapidly growing field that highlights the impact of diet on mental health. Adopting a nutrient-rich diet including whole grains, lean proteins, healthy fats, and abundant fruits and vegetables can profoundly affect our mental wellbeing. By understanding the brain-gut connection and food-mood connection, we can make informed dietary choices to support optimal mental health. 

While nutrition is a valuable aspect of mental health, it is not a replacement for professional care.  If you are experiencing a mental health concern, please consider calling us. Through our careful matching process, we will identify a therapist who will work with you to understand your symptoms, identify goals, and introduce new skills to better manage whatever challenges you are facing. Our clinicians work with you and, when necessary, collaborate with one another to provide a customized treatment plan specifically for you.  Depending on your symptoms, personal preferences, and our professional recommendations, we draw from traditional pharmacology, psychotherapy, nutritional psychiatry, and other prescriptive lifestyle changes to support your mental and physical health.