National Nutrition Month

03/18/2025

With new research, the connection between nutrition and mental health is becoming increasingly clear! Understanding the role nutrition plays in our mental health whether it be through our own research or meeting regularly with a nutritionist, can be a vital part of our personal healing journey. Eating nutritionally dense foods can help improve mood, reduce stress levels, and improve cognitive functioning. The brain uses nutrients from our food to support the metabolic work on enzymes. Feeding our brain can lead to overall improved mental health because fuel enables it to perform better. However, regardless of nutritional habits, YOUR mental health symptoms are real and do matter.

So how exactly does nutrition impact our mental health?

· Brain Function

  • Nutrients are essential for brain structure and function. It is often hard to concentrate when we are hungry!

· Mood Regulation

  • Ever been "hangry?" A nutritionally dense diet can help regulate neurotransmitters such as serotonin and dopamine, which play a vital role in mood and emotional stability. A nutritionally deprived brain can't self-regulate.

· Stress Reduction

  • Eating a balanced died can help manage stress and reduce the levels of the stress hormone, cortisol.

· Gut-Brain Connection

  • The gut and the brain are interconnected and a healthy gut microbiome, which is influenced by how we nurture our bodies, can positively impact mental health.

What are specific nutrients that help with mental health?

· Omega-3 Fatty Acids

  • Found in oily fish, these fats play a vital role in brain health and can reduce symptoms of depression.

· B Vitamins

  • Deficiencies in B vitamins like B12 can contribute to low mood and cognitive decline.

· Protein

  • A protein rich diet can support the production of neurotransmitters, which regulate mood and mental function.

It is important to remember that food is neither good nor bad!! Some foods are more nutritionally dense then others, however, our bodies should never be completely deprived of a certain type of food. Before making any diet changes, please consult with your primary care provider or a nutritionist. If you would like to learn more about the connection between nutrition and mental health, please reach out to one of the wonderful nutrition offices listed below!

· Bluegrass Nutrition Counseling 859-388-9152

· Intuitive Nutrition 859-474-0360

· LexStart Nutrition 859-429-8935

· Run Whole Nutrition 859-951-6023

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