Mental Health and Food

Written by Tamara Farhat, Reviewed by Emily Campbell RD CDE MScFN

How What We Eat Can Impact How We Feel

Processed Food and Mood Disorders

In a world where processed foods are more convenient and sometimes more accessible than fresh ingredients, our society has become reliant on this type of food. Processed foods may lead to inflammation in the body and the brain, which may cause mood disorders, including anxiety and depression1. Because these foods typically contain high amounts of carbohydrates in the form of refined sugars and white flour, which stimulate the dopamine part of the brain, they can become highly addictive. The more we consume them, the more the brain craves them instead of craving nutrient-rich fruits and vegetables, which are essential for our physical and mental well-being. Processed foods are also high in phosphorus additives, which as kidney patients, you should avoid.

The Positive Impact of a Healthy Diet

Studies2 have shown that the Mediterranean diet has a 25% to 35% lower depression risk than a traditional “Western” diet which includes an overload of processed foods and refined sugars. The researchers attribute this result to the high amounts of vegetables, fruits, unprocessed grains, fish and seafood in this diet and alongside low amounts of lean meats. The Mediterranean diet has also been shown to prevent kidney disease and slow its progression in kidney patients.

Our Physical Health Impacts Our Mental Health

If we are unwell physically, that can negatively affect our mental well-being. As kidney patients, a healthy kidney-friendly diet is important to prolong your kidney function and slow the progression of kidney disease. It’s important to discuss with your dietitian your specific dietary needs and create a diet that works for you.

To find a CKD dietitian in your area, you can ask your nephrologist or family physician for a referral to a CKD dietitian. Further information can abe found on The Kidney Community Kitchen. kidneycommunitykitchen.ca/dietitians-blog

1 Eating Well For Mental Health: https://www.sutterhealth.org/health/nutrition/eating-well-for-mental-health

2 Nutritional psychiatry: Your brain on food: https://www.health.harvard.edu/blog/nutritional-psychiatry-your-brain-onfood-201511168626