An article published in the British Journal of Nutrition related to the issue of healthy eating concerning mental health.
The search for answers about the association of excessive consumption of snacks and sweets being linked to high rates of depression, stress, anxiety, and binge eating has increased, resulting in psychological health and the role of affected cognitive processes.
Currently, some studies explore nutrient-poor foods to highlight their harms compared to high-quality foods, such as fruits and vegetables, which are positively related to psychological well-being.
According to endocrinologist Gisele Lorenzoni, low intake of micronutrients, antioxidants, and fibers can reduce brain function, leading to worsened psychological health. “It is likely that those who do not have the habit of consuming nutrient-rich foods are subject to neurotransmitter dysregulation and inflammatory pathways,” emphasizes the specialist.
“In fact, the consumption of nutrient-rich (unprocessed) foods, such as fruits and vegetables, has been associated with fewer psychological health issues and reduced cognitive impairment,” explains the endocrinologist.
For this, it is advisable that a diet followed by nutrient-rich substances with high energy content is essential and favorable, while salty and fatty snacks are negative for our mental health. The doctor highlights that after the Covid-19 pandemic, research showed that in the United States, anxiety symptoms jumped from 8.1% of the population to 37% and depression from 6.5% to 30%. In Brazil, the prevalence of depression and anxiety reached 61% and 44%, respectively, according to the Veja Saúde magazine website. “We know that a healthy diet is good for the proper functioning of our body, and this is reflected in mental health, without a doubt,” says the doctor.
Participe da conversa