Revolutionary Approaches in Food Science, Technology and Processing
Articles

A Review on Nutrition for Mental Health (Nutritional Psychiatry)

Amrita Bhattacharyya
M.Sc. student, Department of Food and Nutrition, Swami Vivekananda University, Barrackpore, W.B., India
Souvik Tewari
Assistant Professor, Department of Food and Nutrition, Swami Vivekananda University, Barrackpore, W.B., India

Published 2025-11-29

Keywords

  • mental health,
  • nutrition,
  • omega 3 fatty acids,
  • vitamins B complex,
  • gut health

How to Cite

Bhattacharyya, Amrita, and Souvik Tewari. “A Review on Nutrition for Mental Health (Nutritional Psychiatry)”. Swami Vivekananda University Press, Nov. 2025, pp. 15-25, https://swamivivekanandauniversitypress.com/index.php/svup/article/view/99.

Abstract

Nutritional psychiatry is an emerging field that explores the intricate relationship between nutrition and mental health, emphasizing the impact of dietary choices on psychological well-being. Research indicates that various nutrients, including omega-3 fatty acids, B vitamins, antioxidants, and amino acids, play crucial roles in brain function and mental health. For instance, omega-3 fatty acids, found in fish and flaxseeds, are associated with reduced symptoms of depression and anxiety due to their anti-inflammatory properties and ability to support neurotransmitter function. Similarly, deficiencies in B vitamins, particularly B12 and folate, have been linked to mood disorders, highlighting the importance of maintaining adequate levels through diet or supplementation. Antioxidants and polyphenols, present in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains, are recognized for their potential to combat oxidative stress and inflammation, both of which are implicated in mental health conditions. By fostering a balanced and nutrient-dense diet, nutritional psychiatry aims to provide holistic approaches to the prevention and treatment of mental health disorders, encouraging a paradigm shift towards integrating dietary interventions into standard psychiatric care.

DOI - https://doi.org/10.65525/SVUP.9788198800428.2025.15-25