Recent research by Mason researchers, including assistant professor Raedeh Basiri, highlights the significant link between nutrition, diabetes, and mental health.
This emerging area of study reveals how diet influences both the development of type 2 diabetes and mental health conditions like depression and anxiety.
Dual Role of Nutrition
Basiri’s two literature reviews reveal that poor nutrition contributes to the risk of developing type 2 diabetes and adversely affects mental health.
This finding is crucial given the higher prevalence of depression and anxiety among people with diabetes, as reported by the Centers for Disease Control.
The research found a cyclical relationship between mental disorders and type 2 diabetes. People with mental health issues like depression and anxiety are at a higher risk of developing type 2 diabetes.
Conversely, those with diabetes are more likely to experience mental health problems.
Diet and Disease Prevention
The team’s findings emphasize the importance of dietary choices in reducing risks associated with diabetes and mental health disorders.
They advocate for a diet rich in fresh fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean protein, and low-fat dairy. Such a diet is linked to a lower risk of type 2 diabetes and mental health issues.
Processed foods, often high in energy but low in essential nutrients, contribute to an increased risk of diabetes, depression, and anxiety. This negative impact underscores the need for nutrient-rich diets.
The research also highlights the importance of specific nutrients in managing these health conditions.
Omega-3 fatty acids, vitamins D, E, B6, B12, folate, selenium, chromium, and magnesium are vital in mitigating symptoms of mental health issues and the development of type 2 diabetes.
Basiri notes that these findings have far-reaching implications beyond the scientific community. They can inform public health policies, healthcare practices, and dietary recommendations, positively impacting the general population.
The research aims to empower individuals to make informed, health-promoting dietary choices. These choices can serve as a proactive strategy for preventing and managing diabetes, anxiety, and depression.
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The research findings can be found in Nutrients.
