A Diet for Depression

Depression is one of the most leading mental disorders worldwide. It requires a complex model of treatment, medications, and forms of therapy to manage the effects of depression. Recently, a higher interest in the supportive role of a sound nutritional plan used to treat mental disorders, like depression, has arisen.

Though the use of nutritional research and data in treatment and prevention of most other chronic conditions is common, further evidence is needed to support conclusions about depressive disorder treatment guidelines. Data from a cross-sectional study came from the continuous National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey, that includes sampling representation of the US population. The study has indicated that dietary inflammation is associated with depression. Such results are consistent with hypotheses that inflammatory pathways play a role in depression origin. So far, few population-based studies have examined the link between mental health disorders and the degree to which diet induces or suppresses inflammatory processes, but this study can shed light on new perspectives for examining and treating depression. When the body responds to inflammatory processes or factors, there are serious changes in the behavioral and immunological system. It is important to prevent our organs from inflammatory processes. One way of prevention is eating according to a proper nutritional plan. Complex dietary approaches to depression differ from the traditional approach that isolates single nutrients. Ask your doctor for a referral to a nutritional specialist to gain a better understanding of what kind of diet will best suit you and your needs.

Source: Preventive Medicine journal, 2017. Authors: Rachel S. Bergmans, Kristen M. Malecki