The Link Between Diet and Mental Health

Did you know, what you eat affects your mental health?

Nutrition is connected to mood, behavior, and mental health treatment. Ra study by Ghernati (2025) showed that high intake of ultra-processed foods among adults increases the risk of depression and anxiety. Ultra-procsessed foods include foods with high fat, sodium, and sugar.

A Healthy Gut and Mental Health

Have you ever felt "butterflies" in your stomach? Do certain situations make you "feel nauseous" ?This means that the gastrointestinal tract is sensitive to emotions. Anxiety, anger, and sadness can trigger symptoms in the gut.

The brain has a direct effect on the stomach and intestines. For instance, the thought of eating can trigger the release of digestive juices before food gets into the stomach. Similarly, a person's gut can trigger anxiety, stress, or depression in the brain. The signals are sent both ways.

Tips to Improve Your Diet and Support Your Mental Health

1. Add fruits and vegetables to your meals.

2. Replace processed foods, such as bread, with whole-grain alternatives like oatmeal.

3. Add beans and fish to your protein source

4. Decrease sugar intake, limit soda, and alcohol

5. Add unsalted nuts as a snack or to salad

For personalized consultations about your mental health issues and diet, visit our website at https://www.jabalihealth.com/ and schedule an appointment with us. Remember, a healthy gut is a healthy mind.