Psychiatry and nutrition–The role of diet in mental health disorders: A review

Abstract

The relationship between nutrition and mental health has emerged as a critical area of psychiatric research, with mounting evidence suggesting significant bidirectional interactions between dietary patterns and mental health outcomes. This comprehensive review synthesizes current evidence regarding the role of nutrition in mental health disorders, examining both mechanistic pathways and clinical applications. We evaluate the influence of dietary factors through key biological systems, including the gut-brain axis, inflammatory pathways, and oxidative stress mechanisms. This review examines evidence linking nutrition to primary psychiatric conditions, including mood disorders, anxiety, psychotic disorders, and neurodevelopmental conditions. Current research supports the role of specific dietary interventions in mental health treatment, though significant gaps remain in our understanding. We present evidence-based recommendations for integrating nutritional approaches into psychiatric care while highlighting critical areas for future research. Our findings suggest that nutrition is an essential modifiable factor in mental health treatment, warranting increased attention in clinical practice and research protocols. Understanding these relationships may lead to more effective and personalized therapeutic strategies that complement existing psychiatric therapies.