Why is Nutrition Important for Mental Health?

Agree or not, this is an important question. When we ask why is nutrition important for mental health we often get confused. We have linked nutritional values to our physical health only.

Nutrients are very essential for our body in minute quantities to allow several processes and cycles to carry on. However, each of these nutrients is equally important for the maintenance of a healthy mental state. In every age group, there are some specific vitamins, minerals, and nutrients that are required by the body as well as the brain.

The functioning of your brain and mind are dependent on an adequate intake of foods rich in nutrients. Otherwise, the nutritional value can go too high or too low causing the occurrence of mental diseases. Moreover, Let’s find out why is nutrition important for mental health.

[1] Vitamin D deficiency

A study conducted in 2005 reveals that Vitamin D receptors were found in the areas of the brain which are affected during the depression. A meta-analysis conducted in 2013 reveals very low levels of Vitamin D in participants who had depression whereas those with moderate levels were quite content. Interestingly, the time of year when it is cold and dark with no sunshine people tend to get more depressed which indicates the formation of no Vitamin D in the body. This condition is called Season Affected Disorder (SAD). This is one clue as to why be nutrition important for mental health.

[2] Omega 3 Fatty Acids deficiency

Do you know your brain is mainly composed of fat? That is why you need Omega 3 Fatty Acids to keep it healthy. Your body cannot synthesize Omega 3 Fatty Acids therefore you have to consume it through foods. DHA and EPA are the two most important types of Omega 3 Fatty Acids. They help smooth the functioning of your brain and as a result, keep your mind healthy and active. Low levels cause irritated mood, disorientation, anxiety, loss of attention, and uneasiness. This is another clue as to why is nutrition important for your mental health.

[3] Vitamin B12 deficiency

According to a study in 2009, older women unknowingly suffer from a deficiency of Vitamin B12 due to which they have an upset mental state. Vitamin B12 is extremely essential to keep a mental state in good health. In case of deficiency, an individual experiences symptoms of anxiety and frustration with a short span of attention and annoying mood. Why is nutrition important for your mental health. This is why.

[4] Tryptophan deficiency

The serotonin hormone produced in your brain makes you happier and lively. The precursor of this hormone is tryptophan. It undergoes breakdown and produces 5-HTP which is the biochemical name of serotonin. More tryptophan means more serotonin and more happiness! Moreover, See this is why is nutrition important for your mental health.

[4] Iron deficiency

Being famous for causing anemia it also causes anxiety when low. Individuals go through some other symptoms of iron deficiency coupled with anxiety which makes the condition worse.

[5] Magnesium deficiency

To know why is nutrition important for your mental health knowing magnesium is equally important. It is known to reduce the concentration and effect of stress hormones. When magnesium level is quite low it can’t reduce the action of stress hormone and a person feels depressed.

As a result, you know very well why is nutrition important for your mental health.

• Scaccia, A. (2017, March 21). Depression and Vitamin D Deficiency: Is There a Connection? Retrieved from https://www.healthline.com/health/depression-and-vitamin-d#connection

 

• Greenblatt, J. M. (2011, November 14). Psychological Consequences of Vitamin D Deficiency. Retrieved from https://www.psychologytoday.com/intl/blog/the-breakthrough-depression-solution/201111/psychological-consequences-vitamin-d-deficiency
• Wolff, C. (2018, September 9). 10 Nutrient Deficiencies That Can Affect Your Mental Health. Retrieved from https://www.bustle.com/p/how-nutrient-deficiencies-can-affect-your-mental-health-11194369

 

• Borchard, B. T., Alberts, N., Anderson, G., Alkon, C., & Hurley, K. (2014, November 15). 10 Nutritional Deficiencies That May Cause Depression. Retrieved from https://www.everydayhealth.com/columns/therese-borchard-sanity-break/nutritional-deficiencies-that-may-cause-depression/

 

• Pace, K. (2019, April 9). Nutritional deficiency and mental health. Retrieved from https://www.healthyfood.com/advice/nutritional-deficiency-and-mental-health/