Kathleen Zamperini – Food and Mood: A Therapist’s Guide to The Role of Nutrition in Mental Health

Outline

How Food Affects Mood

• Assess nutritional factors contributing to mental health conditions
• 5 substances that affect mood
• 7 practical interventions to improve mood
• Research on nutrition’s impact on mental health
• Case study – 24-year-old female – depression and anxiety

Practice Healthy Eating – Vitamins, Minerals, and Antioxidants

• B Vitamins for emotional health
• Benefits of magnesium and common symptoms of magnesium deficiency
• Antioxidants for emotional support
• Recommendations within your scope of practice
  • Nutrients
  • Symptoms of deficiency
  • Best food sources

The Connection Between Stimulants, Anxiety, and Sleep

• The truth about sugar, stimulants, and processed food
• History of processed food and what’s gone wrong
• Link between sugar and depression
• The S.A.D. diet and diseases of affluence
• Case study: the wife who loved coffee

The Skinny on Fat

• Emotions and biochemical activity within the brain
• Mediterranean food pyramid
• Inflammation and mood disorders
• Omega 3 fatty acids and good fat
• Key nutrients to transform emotional health

Nutritional Imbalances that Contribute to Depression

• Lack of essential fats and vitamins
• Blood sugar imbalances associated with excessive sugar and stimulant intake
• Neurotransmitters and their effects when they are lacking in our system
• Tune up your brain and neurotransmitters

Your DNA is not Your Destiny

• The role of epigenetics
• Are diseases of the brain preventable?
• CBT techniques to help clients change their thoughts and behavior toward food and eating
• Clinical benefits of deep breathing
• Incorporate wellness activities into treatment plans

Explore the Gut-Brain Link and Its Impact on Mental Health

• Understand gut microbiome and dysbiosis from a therapist’s perspective
• Learn how proper digestion supports optimum mental health
• The relationship between digestion and stress
• Steps for proper digestion

Ethical Considerations and Understanding Your Role as a Therapist

• Education and awareness for clients – the basic food assessment you can use
• Practical strategies to help clients eat healthy on a budget
• How to apply techniques ethically and responsibly
• When to refer to a medical practitioner
• The risks and limitations of research studies
• Resources for clients