Experts explain the relationship between the gut and mental health

Experts say food can directly affect mental health. Photo: Pexels

You are Mental illness considered a problem Public HealthAnd the data supports the cause. In 2019 alone, nearly 1 billion people – including 14% of the world’s adolescents – were living with some form of mental disorder, according to data from the World Health Organization (WHO), released by the Ministry of Health. So there is no doubt about the importance of this matter.

although Psychological health Seems like a common topic, in which misinformation is rife. Among the various factors that can harm it, the food She is one of the main factors, but few are interested in this relationship, because it is still unknown to many.

Carlos Eduardo Portela, director of the Nutrition Center at the Human Clinic, explains that the intestines are beyond the responsibility of digestion, absorption, and transport of nutrients into the body. This organ is considered the second brain of the human body, and plays an “important role in regulating and maintaining the health of the whole body and mind.” “It has a close relationship with our nervous system, being responsible for regulating appetite, energy levels, emotions, attitudes, learning and memory,” tells the dietitian.

To clarify the relationship between the gut and mental health, the specialist highlights the body’s reaction to stressful events, which can lead to symptoms such as stomach pain, nausea, diarrhea, mood swings and irritability. “Our gut is responsible for producing approximately 90% of serotonin, an important neurotransmitter related to mood management,” he adds.

“What we put in the body is directly proportional to the level of performance of that machine. [organismo]. If we put diesel oil in a petrol car, we would expect that car to not run or go slow. But if we put gasoline, that is, good food, then the performance of this car tends to be better ”, an example of the Portela.

Given the professional interpretations, as well as the many studies that reinforce this information, it is a fact that food can affect mental health. Therefore, paying attention to diet can prevent or promote the improvement of mental disorders.

What diet to follow for good mental health

An anti-inflammatory diet can benefit mental health. Photo: Pexels

Neuroscientist and Master of Psychology Fabiano de Abreu Agrela highlights that foods and inflammatory substances (ultra-processed, fried foods, sugars, white flour, alcohol, etc.) in excess can be the great “villains” of mental health.

In order to maintain better mental health, Agrela recommends following a “diet From the Mediterranean and Japanese, in addition to regular consumption of foods rich in potassium and tryptophan, and rich in antioxidants, such as Bananas, papaya, kiwi, pineapple, berries, citrus fruits, broccoli, and dark leafy vegetables“.

Both experts concluded that while diet plays a key role in maintaining good mental health, other good general health practices are essential, including Therapy, physical activities and sleep quality And in some cases, the use of medications.