Anxiety, depression and diet
The relationship between nutrition and mental health disorders has gained increasing attention within the scientific community. A growing number of studies have shown that malnutrition and the consumption of processed foods may contribute to the development of anxiety and depression, hindering their treatment and slowing recovery.
According to a recent review published in the journal Nutritional Reviews, healthy eating patterns can be effective in both the prevention and treatment of disorders such as depression and anxiety. Therefore, improving nutrition is considered as a key complementary approach in treating these disorders.
Evidence suggests that micronutrients such as B vitamins (folic acid, B6 and B12), vitamin D, zinc, magnesium and essential fatty acids such as omega-3 play a crucial role in psychological well-being.
Although evidence linking diet to anxiety disorders is limited, the aforementioned review suggests that micronutrient supplementation may help to alleviate anxiety symptoms, especially in those patients with nutritional deficiencies.
In relation to depression, a randomised clinical trial published in 2021 showed that following a Mediterranean-style diet supplemented with omega-3 fish oil reduced symptoms of depression in adults. This type of diet also improved the participants' quality of life in terms of their mental health.
Likewise, an analysis of the PREDIMED study found that patients with type 2 diabetes who followed a Mediterranean diet were 41% less likely to be diagnosed with depression compared to the group who did not follow that diet.
The role of nutrition in other disorders
For other diseases such as bipolar disorder, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and Alzheimer's disease, the role of nutrition is more controversial, as there is not enough consensus to establish solid guidelines in these cases.
Adherence to a Mediterranean diet could also be a protective factor for mental health in children and adolescents. Promoting it would help prevent the onset of psychiatric symptoms, reduce their severity and improve prognosis in young patients.
On the other hand, the high prevalence of chronic diseases such as high blood pressure, diabetes and obesity in adult psychiatric patients must also be considered. This relation may be linked to psychopharmacological treatment, but also to an unhealthy lifestyle and lack of self-care. It is crucial to recognise that nutrition and eating habits play a fundamental role in the physical and mental well-being of these patients.
The importance of research
The 2015-2020 Dietary Guidelines for Americans recommend healthy eating patterns, such as following the Mediterranean, vegetarian or vegan diets, which can significantly contribute to improve behavioural well-being. It is essential, however, that individuals following a vegetarian or vegan diet ensure adequate intake of omega-3 fatty acids, iron and vitamin B12 to maintain optimal nutritional status.
In this regard, the researchers stress the need to conduct more clinical trials to better understand the mechanisms involved in the interaction between nutrition and mental health disorders. These studies could play a key role in developing evidence-based nutritional interventions and improving the quality of life for those affected.
For all these reasons, scientific evidence highlights the importance of integrating nutrition into the overall mental health approach. We can affirm that following a healthy eating pattern can have a significant impact not only on the prevention and treatment of these disorders, but also on the patients’ well-being.
