EPISODE · Feb 25, 2026 · 23 MIN
145 | A Nutrition Framework for Depression & Anxiety
from Exam Room Nutrition: Where Busy Clinicians Learn About Nutrition
Mental Health Nutrition Starts Here. When a patient opens up about their mood, we think therapy. We think medication. But do we ever pause and ask… are they eating enough to support their brain?In this episode, I’m joined by registered dietitian Jennifer Hanes, who specializes in nutrition and mental health. We unpack how food impacts mood, why under-eating can worsen anxiety and depression, and how clinicians can confidently talk about nutrition without oversimplifying it.You’ll learn:Why the nutrition hierarchy of needs matters for patients with anxiety and depressionHow chronic under-eating can worsen brain fog, irritability, and low moodThe gut-brain connection and why IBS, inflammation, and mental health are so intertwinedWhich supplements (like fish oil, magnesium, vitamin D, and B12) may be helpfulResources:Listen to this next! Episode 14 Nutrition for Brain Fog Clinician guidelines for the treatment of psychiatric disorders with nutraceuticals and phytoceuticalsConnect with Jennifer on LinkedINJoin the Journal ClubAny Questions? Send Me a MessageSupport the showConnect with Colleen:InstagramLinkedInSign up for my FREE Newsletter - Nutrition hot-topics delivered to your inbox each week.Disclaimer: This podcast is a collection of ideas, strategies, and opinions of the author(s). Its goal is to provide useful information on each of the topics shared within. It is not intended to provide medical, health, or professional consultation or to diagnosis-specific weight or feeding challenges. The author(s) advises the reader to always consult with appropriate health, medical, and professional consultants for support for individual children and family situations. The author(s) do not take responsibility for the personal or other risks, loss, or liability incurred as a direct or indirect consequence of the application or use of information provided. All opinions stated in this podcast are my own and do not reflect the opinions of my employer.
Embed this episode
What this episode covers
Mental Health Nutrition Starts Here. When a patient opens up about their mood, we think therapy. We think medication. But do we ever pause and ask… are they eating enough to support their brain? In this episode, I’m joined by registered dietitian Jennifer Hanes, who specializes in nutrition and mental health. We unpack how food impacts mood, why under-eating can worsen anxiety and depression, and how clinicians can confidently talk about nutrition without oversimplifying it. You’ll lear...
NOW PLAYING
145 | A Nutrition Framework for Depression & Anxiety
No transcript for this episode yet
Similar Episodes
No similar episodes found.
Similar Podcasts
No similar podcasts found.