Nutrition for Maternal Mental Health

May is maternal mental health month! Did you know that nutrition plays an important role in optimizing the mental health of moms? Postpartum depression (PPD) is the occurrence of strong feelings of sadness and worry after having a baby. About 1 in 7 women will experience PPD.

What you eat can influence your mental health. An unhealthy diet high in processed foods, trans fats, and added sugars leads to chronic low-grade inflammation in the body. This inflammation is actually linked to PPD. Greater adherence to a healthy diet has been associated with fewer PPD symptoms. Micronutrient deficiencies contribute to the development of PPD. A few nutrients that are implicated in maternal mental health include B vitamins, vitamin D, zinc, and omega-3 fatty acids. In fact, vitamin D deficiency during mid-pregnancy may be a factor in the development of PPD. Curcumin, the active ingredient in turmeric, supplementation has been found to reduce depression and anxiety symptoms in people with major depressive disorder. It is feasible that this therapeutic effect would apply to those with PPD as well.

In order to set yourself up for a physically, mentally, and emotionally healthy peripartum period, it is imperative that you prioritize good nutrition. If you’re not sure what that means for you - reach out and book a consult with me and I’d be happy to help!