National Mental Health Month The Relationship Between Nutrition and Depression

Understanding Nutrition, Depression and Mental Illnesses,   T. S. Sathyanarayana Rao, M. R. Asha,1 B. N. Ramesh,2 and K. S. Jagannatha Rao2 (To review the entire article, click the following link.)

Nutrition and food patterns play a key role in the onset, severity, and duration of depression. These may include poor appetite, binge eating, overeating, anorexia, skipping meals, and a desire for sweet foods. Nutritional neuroscience is an emerging discipline shedding light on the fact that nutritional factors are intertwined with human cognition, behavior, and emotions. 

The dietary intake pattern of the different populations throughout the world reflects they are often deficient in many nutrients, such as essential vitamins, minerals, and omega-3 fatty acids. Studies have indicated that daily supplements of vital nutrients are often effective in reducing patients' symptoms. Supplements containing amino acids have also been found to reduce symptoms, as they are converted to neurotransmitters which in turn alleviate depression and other mental health problems. When we take a close look at the diet of depressed people, an interesting observation is that their nutrition is far from adequate. They make poor food choices and selecting foods that might actually contribute to depression

The most common nutritional deficiencies seen in patients with mental disorders are of omega–3 fatty acids, B vitamins, minerals, and amino acids that are precursors to neurotransmitters. Accumulating evidence from demographic studies indicates a link between high fish consumption and low incidence of mental disorders; this lower incidence rate being the direct result of omega–3 fatty acid intake. The majority of Asian diets are usually also lacking in fruits and vegetables, which further leads to mineral and vitamin deficiencies.

Carbohydrates have been found to affect mood and behavior. Eating a meal rich in carbohydrates activates the release of insulin in the body. Insulin helps let blood sugar into cells where it can be used for energy and the production of tryptophan to the brain. Consumption of diets low in carbohydrates tends to generate depression due to the lack of production of serotonin and tryptophan.

Protein intake affects brain functioning and mental health. Many of the neurotransmitters in the brain are made from amino acids. If there is a lack of amino acids, this can associate with low mood and aggression in patients. The excessive buildup of the amino acids phenylalanine may lead to brain damage and mental retardation this disease is called phenylketonuria.

As more resource is collected the relationship between nutrition and depression are unquestionably linked. Mood improvement has been associated with improved vitamin B2 and B6 status. Thiamine is linked to cognitive performance particularly in the older population. Clinical trials have indicated Vitamin B12 may delay the onset of signs of dementia. 

A study observing patients with depression and low blood folate levels has identified a strong predisposing factor of poor outcome with antidepressant therapy. It is not clear yet whether poor nutrition, as a symptom of depression, causes folate deficiency or primary folate deficiency produces depression and its symptoms.

Another relationship between diet and depression involves old age. Related factors include unintentional weight loss; often linked to increased morbidity and premature death; a reduction in taste and smell, poor dentition, the use of medications that may depress the appetite. 

Resources
Mental Health America 500 Montgomery Street, Suite 820 Alexandria, VA. 22314 Phone (703) 684.7722

Call the 24-hour, toll-free confidential National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-273-TALK (8255) or go to www.suicidepreventionlifeline.org

National Animal Disaster Preparedness Day

Build a Pet Survival Kit


Food. At least a 3 day supply in an airtight, waterproof container.

Water. At least 3 days of water specifically for your pets.

Medicines and medical records.

Important documents. Registration information, adoption papers, and vaccination documents. Talk to your veterinarian about microchipping and enrolling your pet in a recovery database.

First aid kit. Cotton bandage rolls, bandage tape, and scissors; antibiotic ointment; flea and tick prevention; latex gloves, isopropyl alcohol, and saline solution. Including a pet first aid reference book.

Collar or harness with ID tag, rabies tag, and a leash.

Crate or pet carrier. The carrier should be large enough for your pet to stand, turn around and lie down.

Sanitation. Pet litter and litter box if appropriate, newspapers, paper towels, plastic trash bags, and household chlorine bleach.

A picture of you and your pet together.

National Salsa Month - Spice Up Your Health with Salsa

Salsa is a sauce typical of Mexican cuisine. It is also known as salsa fresca, hot salsa, or salsa picante. Salsa is often tomato-based and includes ingredients such as onions, chilies, and herbs. It is typically spicy, ranging from mild to extremely hot. It is used as dips.

Spice Up Your Health with Salsa

1.  A good source of Vitamin C. Salsa is traditionally made with Vitamin C rich foods such as tomatoes, onion, jalapenos, and lime juice. Vitamin C is important for collagen production, protecting against cell damage, boosting the immune system, fighting infections, and preventing gum disease. 

2.  Promotes a Healthy Heart. As a plant-based food, it's naturally low in cholesterol. Salsa is also an excellent source of potassium, which helps to reduce blood pressure and regulate fluid balance. To get the maximum nutritional benefit, it is best to eat fresh salsa instead of canned alternatives, which can be very high in sodium.

3.  Contains Cancer-Fighting Properties. Most salsas are made with tomatoes and onions - two foods rich in anti-cancer fighting phytochemicals. Tomatoes are an excellent source of lycopene, an antioxidant linked to a decreased risk of prostate, urinary, intestinal and some stomach cancers. Onions are a good source of quercetin another, anti-inflammatory antioxidant. The combination of these ingredients makes salsa a powerful cancer-fighting food!

4. Low in Calories. Salsa is a waist watcher favorite topping. Not only is it low in calories, but it's sure to add flavor and spice to whatever you desire. Two tablespoons of salsa contain less than 15 calories and can be enjoyed liberally on anything from salad to eggs to chicken, and even beans. The possibilities are endless! 

Different Ways to Enjoy Salsa

• Salsa can be made year-round with a variety of fresh fruits or vegetables.

• Turn your abundance of tomatoes into homemade salsa and use your own canning process. 

• Add salsa to eggs or mix in a morning burrito.

• Transform avocado toast into a spiced up version by adding salsa

• Reduce calorie intake by replacing traditional salad dressing or creamy sauces with salsa.

• Spice up dinner by adding salsa to your favorite chicken or fish entrees.

• Add lemon, orange or pineapple juice to a fresh salsa recipe to keep f resh. 

• To maximize the taste and flavor profile, cover and refrigerate for at least one hour before serving.

• Serve safely by not letting the salsa sit at room temperature for more than two hours. And, avoid adding fresh salsa to dip or salsa that has been sitting out.

• Fresh salsa is best if used within three to four days.

• Have fun with your salsa creations! There is no right or wrong way to make salsa, it’s all about mixing fresh ingredients, herbs, and spices and sharing with others

Olive and Tomato Salsa 

by Mary Claire Britton Cooking Light  

Resources
1. Salsa, Wikipedia®
2. 40+ Fresh Ways to Update Homemade Salsa, CookingLight

Food History: April 15, 1955, McDonald's corporation opens first franchised restaurant by Ray Kroc, in Des Plaines, Illinois

McDonald’s Meal Builder allows you to create your own meal combinations. As you build your meal, you see the nutritional breakdown. An educated consumer has the ability to make wise food choices.
  

Ray Kroc Documentary McDonald's History

National Pecan Day - Food Styling: Butternut Squash with Pecans

April is National Pecan Month

Pecans are a good source of fiber and protein. They  

are sodium-free and cholesterol-free.
A healthy snack, but watch the portion size.

Butternut Squash with Pecans

April News, Events and Resources in Nutrition, Food, and Health for Journalists, Writers, Educators and Bloggers

Current News, Resources and Events in Nutrition, Food, Health, Environment, Safety, and Disability Rights. Encourages awareness and inspires ideas for Journalists, Educators, Consumers and Health Professionals.

Wellness News 

April Highlights

National Autism Awareness Month
April 2nd World Autism Day

Keep America Beautiful (3/1 - 5/31)

Global Child Nutrition Month

National Volunteer Month


Alcohol Awareness Month
Cancer Control Month

Child Abuse Prevention Month

Defeat Diabetes Month

Stress Awareness Month

IBS (Irritable Bowel Syndrome) Awareness Month
National Donate Life Month

National Parkinson's Awareness Month 

World Habitat Awareness Month

Fresh Florida Tomatoes Month

National Garden Month

National Pecan Month

National Soft Pretzel Month

Soyfoods Month 

National Youth Sports Safety Month

Prevention of Animal Cruelty Month 

Jazz Appreciation Month

April 22 Earth Day

 

National Nutrition Month 2021: Personalize Your Plate

National Nutrition Month® is celebrated each year during March with the focus on the importance of making informed food choices and developing sound eating and physical activity habits. 

The theme for National Nutrition Month® 2021 is Personalize Your Plate. The theme is designed to show no one-size-fits-all approach to nutrition and health. We are all unique with different bodies, goals, backgrounds, and tastes.

The Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics looks forward to celebrating National Nutrition Month® with you! 

Registered Dietitian Nutritionist Day is also celebrated during National Nutrition Month®, on the second Wednesday in March. This occasion increases awareness of registered dietitian nutritionists as the indispensable providers of food and nutrition services while recognizing both RDNs and nutrition and dietetic technicians, registered for their commitment to helping people enjoy healthy lives.

National Nutrition Month - Enhance Flavors with Spices and Herbs

Instead of salt, use spices, herbs, lemon juice, and/or vinegar to enhance the taste of your food. The health benefits are life-long.

Wikipedia has provided an extensive list of culinary herbs and spices. The list does not contain salt (which is a mineral) or plants used primarily as herbal teas or medicinal herbs. Explore the different flavors and cultures.

National Nutrition Month and Beyond

National Nutrition Month®  is a nutrition education and information campaign created annually in March by the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics. The campaign focuses on the importance of making informed food choices and developing sound eating and physical activity habits. In addition, National Nutrition Month® promotes the Academy and its members to the public and the media as a valuable and credible source of timely, scientifically-based food and nutrition information.

National Nutrition Month® Campaign

During National Nutrition Month® and Beyond, help the Academy achieve its vision of a world where all people thrive through the transformative power of food and nutrition.

Key Messages:

1.      Include a variety of healthful foods from all of the food groups on a regular basis.

2.      Consider the foods you have on hand before buying more at the store.

3.      Buy only the amount that can be eaten or frozen within a few days and plan ways
    to use leftovers later in the week.

4.      Be mindful of portion sizes. Eat and drink the amount that’s right for you, as
    MyPlate encourages us to do.

5.      Continue to use good food safety practices.

6.      Find activities that you enjoy and be physically active most days of the week.

7.      Realize the benefits of healthy eating by consulting with a registered dietitian
    nutritionist. RDNs can provide sound, easy-to-follow personalized nutrition advice
    to meet your lifestyle, preferences and health-related needs.

Registered Dietitian Nutritionist Day. The goal is to increase awareness of the registered dietitian nutritionists as the indispensable providers of food and nutrition services and recognizes RDNs for their commitment to helping people enjoy healthy lives.

Be sure to visit the Academy's National Nutrition Month® website during the upcoming months for new and updated resources to help make National Nutrition Month® celebration an infinite success!

The Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics is the world’s largest organization of food and nutrition professionals. The Academy is committed to improving the nation’s health and advancing the profession of dietetics through research, education, and advocacy. Visit the Academy at www.eatright.org.

Reference
Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics, National Nutrition Month®

National Triglycerides Day

Triglycerides

Triglycerides are a type of fat. They are the most common type of fat in your body. They come from foods, especially butter, oils, and other fats you eat. Triglycerides also come from extra calories. Your body changes these extra calories into triglycerides and stores them in fat cells. When your body needs energy, it releases the triglycerides. Your VLDL cholesterol particles carry the triglycerides to your tissues.

Having a high level of triglycerides can raise your risk of heart diseases, such as coronary artery disease.

What causes high triglycerides?

Factors that can raise your triglyceride level include

• Regularly eating more calories than you burn off, especially if you eat a lot of sugar
• Being overweight or having obesity
• Cigarette smoking
• Excessive alcohol use
• Certain medicines
• Some genetic disorders
• Thyroid diseases
• Poorly controlled type 2 diabetes
• Liver or kidney diseases

How Triglycerides is Diagnosed

What are the treatments for high triglycerides?

You may be able to lower your triglyceride levels with lifestyle changes:

• Controlling your weight
• Regular physical activity
• Not smoking
• Limiting sugar and refined foods
• Limiting alcohol
• Switching from saturated fats to healthier fats

Some people will also need to take cholesterol medicines to lower their triglycerides.

Resources.

1. High levels of fat in the blood in the form of triglycerides can increase your risk of heart disease. #Eatright 

2. What Are High Blood Cholesterol and Triglycerides? American Heart Association

3. Triglycerides, MedlinePlus

Try Healthy Red and Pink Foods

Red and Pink Foods

Food Sources

Apples, Beets, Cayenne, Cherries, Cranberries, Guava, Kidney Beans, Papaya, Pink Beans, Pink/Red Grapefruit, Pomegranates, Radicchio, Radishes, Raspberries, Red Bell Peppers, Red Cabbages, Red Chili Peppers, Red Corn, Red Currants, Red Grapes, Red Onions, Red Pears, Red Peppers, Red Plums, Red Potatoes, Red Tomatoes, Rhubarb, Strawberries, Watermelons

Do you know other foods that are Red or Pink?

About Red Fruits and Vegetables.

Red fruits and vegetables get their color from natural plant pigments called lycopene or anthocyanins. Both are phytonutrients, which have health-promoting benefits, such as:

·         Reduces the risk of several types of cancer, especially prostate cancer

·         Reduces the risk of heart disease

·         Protects our bodies’ cells from environmental damage (harmful free-radicals)

·         Lowers blood pressure

·         Lowers LDL cholesterol

·         Aids in memory

·         Maintains the health of the urinary tract system

Lycopene is a carotenoid and antioxidant. Examples of food sources include tomatoes, watermelon, pink grapefruit, and papaya.  

Anthocyanins, an antioxidant found in cranberries, raspberries, red grapes, strawberries, and other red to purplish fruits and vegetables may help protect cells from damage.

In addition, red fruits and vegetables contain many vitamins and minerals and are rich in fiber. Fiber helps maintain the digestive system.

Kidney Bean, Red Onion and Tomato Salad
New York Times, by Nigella Lawson 

Ways to increase Red Food Intake:
Add strawberries or raspberries to cereal or low-fat yogurt.
Freeze seedless red grapes for a sweet snack.
Add thin slices of red tomatoes or red apples to a sandwich.
Add red kidney beans to soup, salads or rice dishes.
Dice tomatoes and red apples and add to a salad.

Definitions:
Phytonutrients (or phytochemicals) are found in plants. They are part of what gives fruits and vegetables their colors. Phytonutrients help protect plants from diseases found in the environment and protect us in a similar way. Studies have linked an increase of fruit and vegetable intake with lowering the risk of specific cancers and heart disease. The following list describes how phytonutrients may also help protect human health.
1. Act as an antioxidant.
2. Improves immune response.
3. Improves cell-to-cell communication.
4. Destroys cancer cells.
5. Repairs DNA damage caused by toxins in the environment.

Antioxidants. As the body uses oxygen, there are by-products (known as “free radicals”) that can cause damage to cells. Antioxidants can prevent or slow down the damage caused by these free radicals and decrease the risk of many chronic diseases, such as heart disease and cancer. Antioxidants may also improve the immune defense and lower the risk of infection. Some examples of antioxidants include vitamin A (beta-carotene), vitamin C, vitamin E, lutein, lycopene, and flavonoids.