Nourishing the Mind: How Food Security Influences Mental Wellbeing

Ovinuchi Ejiohuo*, Helen Onyeaka*, Kingsley C. Unegbu, Obinna G. Chikezie, Omowale A. Odeyemi, Adebola Lawal, Olumide A. Odeyemi, Maria Luz Fernandez (Editor)

*Corresponding author for this work

Research output: Contribution to journalReview articlepeer-review

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Abstract

Food insecurity is a significant public health problem worldwide and critical to mental health. There is a complex relationship between food security and mental health. We carried out a narrative review study aiming to address how food insecurity impacts mental wellbeing by focusing on the mental health repercussions of food insecurity, recognizing its pivotal role in attaining Sustainable Development Goals 2 (on hunger) and 3 (on enhancing global wellbeing). A comprehensive search was conducted on PubMed and Google Scholar, incorporating Google searches for pertinent reports and policy documents. To address these questions, we emphasized and elucidated the interconnectedness between food security and mental health. The review shows that food security and mental health share a profound relationship influenced by multifaceted factors like socioeconomic conditions, access to nutritious food, and societal inequalities. We then provide recommendations for integrating food security into mental health strategies based on the insights and conclusions drawn. Strategies ranging from sustainable farming practices to urban agriculture initiatives and digital mental health services demonstrate avenues for enhancing food safety and mental wellbeing. This highlights the need for collaborative interdisciplinary efforts and systemic reforms to address these interconnected challenges.
Original languageEnglish
Article number501
Number of pages17
JournalNutrients
Volume16
Issue number4
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - 9 Feb 2024

Keywords

  • nutrition
  • depression
  • hygiene
  • anxiety
  • wellbeing
  • food security
  • mental health
  • stress
  • food insecurity

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