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Micronutrients, Phytonutrients, and Mental Health
As the pioneer and global leader of Functional Medicine, the Institute of Functional Medicine leads and catalyses the efforts of a large and expanding Functional Medicine ecosystem, including providers, educators, payers, industry leaders, regulators, and influencers.
2022
Abstract
The IFM provides some food for thought around the topic of micronutrient deficiency in the population today and how this is having a detrimental impact on our mental health. The many avenues of micronutrient depletion are explored including stress and the link between the coronavirus pandemic and the rise in mental health issues across the globe. They shine a spotlight specifically on magnesium and B vitamins where low levels have been linked to increased risk of depression, plus the importance of anti-inflammatory dietary phytonutrients and antioxidants such as vitamins A, C, D and E which have been associated with reduced levels of stress, anxiety and depression. Besides the evidence for a varied and nutrient dense diet, we are reminded that strategies for managing stress should also be considered with respect to both the direct impact on our mental and physical health, and the risk of micronutrient depletion.