Volume 5 Issue 6 June 2015
Consultation Liaison Psychiatry Focus: „Community Medicine‟
One of the most obvious, so far under-recognized factors in the development of key trends in mental health is the role of nutrition. Research has overwhelmingly confirmed the vital role of nutrition in development, management and prevention of common mental health problems like, Schizophrenia, Depression, Alzheimer‟s disease, Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder etc.
A predominant feature of dietary patterns of mentally ill patients is the severity of deficiency of nutrients like vitamins,
minerals and Omega-3 fatty acids. Consumption of low carbohydrate diet precipitates depression, since the production of tryptophan and serotonin that promote the feeling of well-being, is triggered by carbohydrate rich foods.
Several epidemiological studies have found bi-directional association in vitamin D deficiency with occurrence and
severity of depression. As vitamin D deficiency may lead to depression due to its role in antioxidant pathways, nerve
conduction, neurotransmitter targets, and neuronal calcium regulation. On other hand depression may also be a risk factor for development of vitamin D deficiency as depressed people may consume a less nutritious diet, stay indoors, and exercise less; all activities that contribute to lower serum vitamin D levels. Studies have reported better efficacy of
antidepressants along with vitamin D supplementation.
According to studies Amino acids like tryptophan, tyrosine, phenylalanine, and methionine may be useful in treating
many mood disorders including depression. Dietary supplementation with tyrosine and phenylalanine lead to alertness and arousal. Omega -3 fatty acids by consumption of fish and fish oils are found to be effective in treatment of depression and bipolar disorders. It also reduces the risk of developing cognitive impairment and dementia. Diet rich in folate, vitamin B12 and D is found to be useful in treatment as well as prevention of depression.
Dr. Rahul Bogam, Assistant Professor, Department of Community Medicine.
Bharati Vidyapeeth Deemed University Medical College, Pune, Maharashtra
