Eat to Heal: The Powerful Connection between Nutrition and Mental Health
Arju Saini
Department of Human Development and Family Studies, I.C. College of Community Science, Chaudhary Charan Singh Haryana Agricultural University, Hisar-125004 (Haryana), India.
Bhavna Sharma *
Department of Foods and Nutrition, I.C. College of Community Science, Chaudhary Charan Singh Haryana Agricultural University, Hisar-125004 (Haryana), India.
Annu Panghal
Department of Human Development and Family Studies, I.C. College of Community Science, Chaudhary Charan Singh Haryana Agricultural University, Hisar-125004 (Haryana), India.
Poonam Malik
Department of Human Development and Family Studies, I.C. College of Community Science, Chaudhary Charan Singh Haryana Agricultural University, Hisar-125004 (Haryana), India.
*Author to whom correspondence should be addressed.
Abstract
Emerging research in the field of nutritional psychiatry has revealed a compelling link between nutrition and mental well-being. This review explores how nutritional choices directly influence brain health, the connection between the brain and gut influences emotions and mental health, and the risk of mental disorders such as depression, anxiety, and cognitive decline. The paper highlights the importance of nutrients like carbohydrates, protein, healthy fats, and key vitamins (like D, B12, C and E) that support brain function and mood. Studies show that healthy eating patterns such as the Mediterranean diet, plant-based diets, and other balanced eating plans can improve mental health. The review also explores new treatment ideas like using probiotics and combining nutrition with mental health counselling. Overall, it emphasizes that good nutrition can play a powerful role in supporting mental well-being and should be part of any complete approach to mental health care.
Keywords: Nutritional psychiatry, diet and mental health, gut-brain connection, brain supporting nutrients, holistic mental care