Can the Food We Eat Causes Mental Illnesses?

The role of nutrition is crucial in mental health. On one side, poor nutrition leads to and exacerbates mental illnesses, while on the other side, optimal nutrition prevents and treats them. A good nutrition should be nutrient dense and tailored to the needs of the individual who might have been missing the basic ingredients for optimal brain function since life in the womb.

A diet high in refined sugars, fruit juices and sugar drinks is loaded with chemicals and synthetic preservatives, hormones, antibiotics and food colorings that alter the mood, which makes this diet a leading cause in the inflammatory state of the body and sets the stage for neurotransmitters imbalances.

Furthermore, people who are addicted to substances such as alcohol or cannabis, do not eat well or enough at all, and what they do eat is not metabolized properly. In addition, they deplete their body from essential nutrients. Therefore, the traditional or authentic nutrition, based on what our ancestors used to eat is very beneficial. In fact, it is very rich in anti-inflammatory and omega-3 foods, in addition to its low sugar content.

Since the health of the brain and the possibility of substance addiction are both related to what the person consumes, it is highly recommended to follow these guidelines to avoid any potential addiction or mental problems:

• Eat breakfast and avoid refined carbohydrates. This will help the brain escape the emotional and mood roller coasters, in addition to keeping a high level of energy and a lifted spirit at all times.
• Nourish the first and the second brain, which is the digestive system. The brain of the person is made up of almost 60% fat, hence the importance of good fats in the diet coming from avocadoes, olive oil, eggs, omega-3 from fish, nuts…. Additionally, it is crucial to include animal protein since they have a positive effect on the mood, similarly to complex carbohydrates. As for the second brain, it is mainly improved by eating fermented foods like yogurt, which helps in improving or treating any digestive problems.
• Eat only when feeling relaxed since tension and anxiousness will lead to indigestions and thus problems in the second brain.
• Listen to your body. In fact, our body talks to us through the symptoms it shows, indicating a potential problem which needs to be treated.
• Treat digestive problems due to their connection to mental illnesses in most cases.
• Avoid exposure to additives, preservatives, hormones, toxic pesticides and fertilizers, given their influence on mental health.
• Follow a personalized diet that is colorful and preferably alcohol and drugs free.
• Take all the necessary vitamins and minerals, and engage in physical activity to keep a positive attitude.

Improving your lifestyle in order to treat or avoid any mental or addiction problems is very accessible when you seek the right support and consultation. It is for this reason that mental health professionals, NGOs to fight addiction and a multi-disciplinary medical team are there to assist you.