Publication Date
Spring 4-18-2020
School
School of Health Sciences
Major
Biochemistry and Molecular Biology
Keywords
nutrition, diet, depression, anxiety, mental health
Disciplines
Biochemistry | Food Processing | Human and Clinical Nutrition | Molecular and Cellular Neuroscience | Molecular Biology | Nervous System Diseases
Recommended Citation
Wildeman, Katlin, "The Role of Diet in the Onset of Depression: A Biochemical Connection Between Nutrition and Mental Health" (2020). Senior Honors Theses. 976.
https://digitalcommons.liberty.edu/honors/976
Abstract
Depression is a major clinical concern, having a complex onset and the presence of multiple, often unidentifiable causes. Depression affects millions of individuals worldwide, with a high prevalence in regions of the world with a Western-style diet as compared to regions with a Mediterranean diet. A Western-style diet consists of foods high in sugar, fat, and processed meats and grains, whereas the Mediterranean diet contains significantly more vegetables, fruits, lean meats, and whole grains. The link between diet and mental health disorders has implications for individuals of all ages who are hesitant to turn to medication. In addition to presenting a closer examination of the biochemical foundation of depression, this review focuses on the effects of factors such as food-related inflammation, nutrition, and probiotics in symptom development.
Included in
Biochemistry Commons, Food Processing Commons, Human and Clinical Nutrition Commons, Molecular and Cellular Neuroscience Commons, Molecular Biology Commons, Nervous System Diseases Commons
