Nutrition and Food Sciences

Nutrition and Mental Health

Session Overview:

This session will explore the intricate relationship between nutrition and mental health, emphasizing how dietary choices can influence mental well-being. It will feature the latest research findings, clinical practices, and public health initiatives aimed at integrating nutrition into mental health care.

Key Topics and Subsessions:

Introduction to Nutrition and Mental Health

The Mind-Gut Connection: Overview of the gut-brain axis and how gut health affects mental health.

Historical Perspectives: Brief exploration of historical beliefs about food and mental health and how they have evolved over time.

Nutritional Influences on Mental Health

Key Nutrients and Their Role: Discussion on specific nutrients (e.g., omega-3 fatty acids, vitamins B6, B12, D, folate) and their impact on mood and cognitive function.

Dietary Patterns and Mental Health: Examination of how various dietary patterns (e.g., Mediterranean diet, Western diet) correlate with mental health outcomes.