Title:
The Relationship Between Self Reported Nutritional Patterns and Depression
Author(s):
Alexis Walker
Author Email:
awalker8@unca.edu
Department:
HEALTH & WELLNESS
Faculty Mentor(s):
Laura K. Jones
Abstract / Summary:
Research in recent years has suggested that the state of an individual’s gut microbiome may be related to their overall health, including mental health. The area of study involving the bidirectional interactions between the brain and the microbiome is called the gut brain axis. Our nutritional patterns, such as the nutrient density of one’s diet, influence the state of the gut microbiome, which in turn may influence emotional wellbeing. The purpose of this research study was to explore the relationship between self-reported nutritional patterns and depression. A diverse sample of adults completed an online survey of questionnaires related to their experiences with depression and the general composition of their diet. The results of this research supported my hypothesis that diet and mental health are inversely correlated.
Publication Date:
May-14-2024
Documents: