Nutrition and mental health recovery

Abstract

This review examines the relationship between nutrition and mental health recovery. It examined 22 papers and found that there is substantial evidence to show that people with mental health problems are more likely to engage in poor dietary practices compared to the general population. In addition, there is growing evidence supporting the link between diet and mental health and the benefits of the practical applications of nutritional interventions within mental health services. However, many of these studies are of association and do not prove causation. Therefore, further research is needed on nutrition interventions that utilise specific outcome measures and focus on nutrition in isolation to other factors such as physical activity. The implications of these findings are discussed focusing on mental health practice. This review will be relevant to individuals at all levels within the mental health service, including service users, carers, mental health professionals, managers and directors.