Nutritional Psychiatry

The food you eat fuels your body and brain. Unfortunately, the average American diet is sorely lacking in the nutrients needed for optimal brain and body functionality. Reliance on refined grains, sugar, trans fats, and other less-than-healthy choices not only contributes to physical disease but also mental health problems. Additionally, serotonin, one of the neurotransmitters that regulate your mood, sleep, and appetite, is produced in your gastrointestinal tract. Your diet impacts this serotonin production and the millions of neurons in your digestive tract. If your diet causes an imbalance in the bacteria in your digestive tract or triggers an inflammatory response, you begin to experience both physical and mental symptoms. For example, many patients who take a probiotic supplement to regulate their gut bacteria find their perception of stress decreases and their overall mental outlook improves.

Studies show that a Mediterranean diet that includes plenty of fresh vegetables, fruits, lean proteins such as chicken and fish, whole grains, and healthy fats like olive oil provides a variety of physical and mental health benefits. Further research reveals that zinc, magnesium, omega 3, and vitamins B and D3 have a positive effect on mood, including for those who live with depression.

Nutritional psychiatry focuses on improving your brain health and function to reduce mental health symptoms associated with depression, anxiety, and other mental health issues. Dr. Aina offers comprehensive consultations and blood tests to identify nutritional deficits. He may ask you to keep a food diary for a week or so before your assessment so he can see what your current diet looks like and where there is room for improvement. Once Dr. Aina understands your needs, he creates personalized meal plans and prescribes nutritional supplements. You’ll have regular appointments to discuss your symptoms and other aspects of your health and wellness. Dr. Aina may order additional blood work from time to time to monitor your nutrient levels. If you want to improve your mental health, reduce your anxiety and depression symptoms, and enhance your overall wellness, call Tri-MED Behavioral & Sleep Medicine or make an appointment online today to learn more about nutritional psychiatry.