DIET AND DEPRESSION: Chasing Kids Globally

This eBook is intended for all parents and prospective parents, and mothers interested in nurturing physically healthy and mentally sound kids. Major depression contributes to the second highest burden of disability worldwide. Globally, nearly 20 % of children and adolescents are afflicted with mental disorders or mental health-related problems, half of which are diagnosed before the age of 14. Among the potential risk factors for mental health disorders in young people for early prevention and intervention, diet is considered a primary area of importance for non-pharmacological approaches.This e-Book reviews the cutting-edge research advances and reviews in diet and depression, and suggests specific steps in dietary intervention for early and effective prevention specifically focusing on the relationship between dietary intake in childhood and adolescence and internalizing behaviors, including depressive symptoms, low mood, or anxiety.Following a brief survey of the epidemiological evidence, we take a glimpse at the systematic review of 12 key epidemiological studies to determine whether an association exists between diet quality and patterns and mental health in children and adolescents.We then take a look at how psychological or behavioural factors at the household level negatively affect children's PLANT-BASED DIET consumption, given the evidence that a diet high in fruit and vegetables lowers risk of chronic disease, and improves physical and psychological health.The next Chapter discusses on the dietary patterns in infancy and the relationship with later obesity, reviewing studies linking dimensions of infant temperament with the specific kinds of foods and drinks they are offered by mothers. We then argue why mothers should avoid using sweet foods and drinks to regulate their child’s behavior?In particular, we examine the underlying mechanisms how diet contributes to psychopathology, particularly the common mental disorders (CMDs), depression and anxiety. Inflammation associated with diet is discussed at length. We then, critically examine the dietary risk factors associated with depression and anxiety in adolescents.The eBook suggests pertinent solutions, for example, how a Mediterranean-style diet ameliorates endothelial dysfunction and markers of vascular inflammation, thereby encouraging prompt dietary intervention globally to prevent a series of brain diseases. In fact, we go a step further in emphasizing the need to target dietary intake of pregnant women in an effort to prevent mental health problems in offspring, given the established link between maternal diet and neurological, immunological, and central nervous system development of offspring. Evidence suggests that delivery of health education and nutritional and lifestyle interventions to pregnant women is likely to lower the risk of a broader range of mental health and cognitive disorders, as well as conferring benefits for a wide range of other health outcomes in children. Biomedical researchers should find the voluminous data and copious references handy. Read more