Nutrition plays a pivotal role in supporting mental health. Numerous evidence-based studies have underscored the crucial connection between mental health and what you eat.
We have been collaborating with Christiana Velis, Nutritionist and food enthusiast, to understand the gut-brain link.
Recent research has demonstrated:
- A healthy or Mediterranean diet is associated with a decreased risk of depression
- Higher intake of refined carbohydrates has been shown to increase depressive symptoms in healthy volunteers
- There is evidence for an association between ultra-processed food and adverse mental health
How is the gut linked to the brain?
The gut-brain axis is the bidirectional relationship between the gut and mental health. Changes in the gut microbiome can influence stress, mood, and cognitive processes, thereby impacting conditions such as anxiety, depression, and irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). Conversely, brain states can affect gastrointestinal function, altering the composition and activity of the gut microbiome. This relationship means that combining both nutrition and psychology can offer a new avenue for the treatment of mental health disorders.
Would You Like To Find Out More? Introducing Christiana Velis
Christiana Velis specialises in gut/digestive health and all areas of women’s health including PMS/PMDD, perimenopause, menopause, endometriosis and PCOS. She takes both a science-based and client-focused approach with clients, helping them reach optimal health at their pace.
She is passionate about the link between nutrition and mental health, and the need for a wholesome diet to foster emotional resilience, improve energy, productivity and overall psychological wellbeing. Click the link to learn more!