People with diabetes are 2-3 times more likely to have depression than people without, according to the Centers for Disease Control. Current treatment includes therapy, medicine, or both.
However, the understanding of the multifaceted relationship between nutrition, mental health, and diabetes is relatively new in scientific discourse.
A recent study led by researchers from George Mason University has shown that poor nutrition plays a dual role, contributing to both the risk of developing type 2 diabetes and impacting mental health, including anxiety and depression.
The study’s findings were published in Nutrients and were based on two literature reviews conducted by assistant professor Raedeh Basiri.
According to the reviews, mental disorders such as depression and anxiety increase the risk of developing type 2 diabetes, and diabetes is also linked with an increased risk of developing depression and anxiety.
Nutrition interventions can aid in both of these health issues.
“Our findings underscore the pivotal role of dietary choices in reducing the risks associated with both diabetes and mental health.
The implications of these findings extend beyond the scientific community, as they hold promise for informing public health policies, health care practices, and dietary recommendations that can positively impact the general population,” said Basiri, the lead author of the papers.
The study highlights the need for better education and awareness about the relationship between nutrition, diabetes, and mental health.
It also emphasizes the importance of providing individuals with the knowledge and tools to make informed and health-promoting dietary choices.
By doing so, people can take a proactive approach to the prevention and management of diabetes, anxiety, and depression.
In conclusion, the study shows that poor nutrition can contribute to both the risk of developing type 2 diabetes and mental health issues such as anxiety and depression.
The findings highlight the need for better education and awareness about the relationship between nutrition, diabetes, and mental health, and the importance of providing individuals with the knowledge and tools to make informed dietary choices.
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The research findings can be found in Nutrients.
