The Bidirectional Relationship Between Nutrition and Mental Health in Adolescents and Young Adults

Authors

Ceymone Pride, University of LynchburgFollow

Specialty

Family Medicine

Advisor

Debra Munsell

Abstract

Nutrition plays a critical role in adolescent mental health, yet the bidirectional interactions between dietary patterns and psychological well-being remain underrecognized in primary care. This review aims to synthesize current evidence on the relationship between nutrition and mental health among adolescents and young adults, highlight biological mechanisms linking the two, and discuss practical strategies for clinical integration. Recent evidence across cohort and interventional studies supports that dietary quality is associated with mood regulation and cognitive functioning. Diets rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and omega-3 fatty acids are linked to reduced depressive and anxiety symptoms with small to moderate effect sizes across trials, whereas highly processed foods contribute to inflammation and poorer mental health outcomes. Mechanistic pathways such as the gut-brain axis, inflammation, and neurotransmitter synthesis illustrate how nutritional factors influence psychiatric health. The integration of nutritional psychiatry into adolescent care requires clinician education, interdisciplinary collaboration, and equitable access to nutritious foods. Addressing these factors may strengthen prevention and treatment strategies for mood and anxiety disorders in this population.

Keywords: Adolescent mental health, dietary patterns, inflammation and depression, primary care, nutritional psychiatry

Recommended Citation

Pride C. The Bidirectional Relationship Between Nutrition and Mental Health in Adolescents and Young Adults. University of Lynchburg DMSc Doctoral Project Assignment Repository. 2025; 7(3).