NP 150 Part I:

Mechanisms in the Diet-Mental Health Relationship (DMHR)

$299 USD

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NP 150 Part I:

Mechanisms in the Diet-Mental Health Relationship (DMHR)

Understanding the mechanisms linking diet and mental health is like finding the gears of a clock—only by seeing how they turn together can we unlock the full potential of food as medicine for the mind.

Register Now

$299 USD

39.25 CE for Mental Health Professionals & Dietitians/37.25 for NCCs

Courses in the NP 100 Certificate:

Mechanisms explain how nutrition and psychology interconnect to influence psychological health and well-being. They illuminate events and processes at the molecular, cellular, and physiological levels (brain, hormonal, and chemical) arising from dietary intake that underlie specific biological or psychological functions or responses. —CNP

Mechanisms in Nutritional Psychology explain how nutrition and psychology interconnect to influence psychological health and well-being. Mechanisms illuminate events and processes at the molecular, cellular, and physiological levels (brain, hormonal, and chemical) arising from dietary intake that underlie specific biological or psychological functions or responses (e.g., feeling happy, depressed, or craving certain foods). These mechanisms involve complex biochemical pathways, molecular interactions, and cellular processes that influence mood, cognition, and behavior and collectively contribute to the overall functioning of living organisms.

While NP 120 Parts I & II introduced the MGBA as a major mechanism within nutritional psychology, this course introduces additional mechanisms central to nutritional psychology, including biological, neurobiological, neuroimmunological, psychoneuroimmunological, psychological, behavioral, social, and environmental mechanisms.

Some of the mechanisms explored in this course include the interconnections between DMHR and macronutrients, micronutrients, nutritional deficiencies, phytonutrients, and neuroactive compounds. Additional mechanisms explored include dietary patterns, the microbiota-gut-brain axis (MGBA), early life nutrition, hormonal regulation, neuroendocrine pathways, and major brain structures, including the amygdala, hippocampus, prefrontal cortex, hypothalamus, and ventral striatum.  The interconnection between diet and emotions, memory, decision-making, appetite, and food-seeking behaviors via neurotransmission, neurogenesis, neural repair, neuroplasticity, neurotrophins, neuropeptides, and neuroinflammation are revealed.

Additionally, this course investigates how dietary patterns and specific nutrients influence immune-brain communication, inflammation, oxidative stress, microglia, mitochondrial function, and the blood-brain barrier. We examine these insights in the context of their effects on psychological functioning and clinical mental health disorders. 

This course prepares learners to enroll in NP 150 Part II. Completing NP 110, NP 120 Parts I & II, and NP 150 Parts I & II fulfills the NP 100 Series Introductory Certificate requirements in NP and prepares you to enroll in the NP 200 Series in Educational Applications in Nutritional Psychology (available 2026).

This course is fully online, self-paced, and text-based, with figures/diagrams, powerpoint presentations, and short animated videos. This course has a syllabus, four modules and quizzes, one final exam, and a course evaluation. The pace with which you complete this course will depend on your personal reading, comprehension, and learning style. See the NP 150 Part I Course Flyer.

Once enrolled, Learners have full online access to this course for 4 months (120 days). This course is fully self-contained, and no additional materials are needed for its completion. This course and evaluation must be completed to receive course credit and an NP 110 Certificate of completion. No partial credit is given. This course is not downloadable. However, for each module, Learners may download a Module Download Kit containing all of the Terms & Definitions, Figures, Lightbulb moments (short evidence-based factoids), and APA-formatted References.

CNP is committed to identifying and resolving potential conflicts of interest in planning, promoting, delivering, and evaluating its continuing education curriculum and programs. As an APA-approved continuing education sponsor, and consistent with concepts outlined in the APA Ethical Principles of Psychologists and Code of Conduct, no individual involved in the planning, promotion, delivery, or evaluation of CNP continuing education has any personal, professional, legal, financial, or other interests that could reasonably be expected to impair his, her, or their objectivity, competence, or effectiveness.

Course Learning Objectives




Module 1:

  • List three disciplines included within the interdisciplinary scope of nutritional psychology
  • State two ways blood sugar fluctuations dysregulate brain function
  • Name one historical figure from before the 20th Century who influenced our understanding of DMHR
  • Define the term ‘mechanism’ and list three mechanisms involved in DMHR
  • List two reasons for including DMHR in mental health care
  • Name two social factors that influence DMHR

Module 2:

  • Define “biological mechanisms” in DMHR
  • Recite two beneficial effects of fiber-rich foods on brain health
  • Name two ways phytonutrients impact brain function
  • List two neuroactive compounds that influence mental health outcomes
  • Cite two ways omega-3 fatty acid deficiency can influence the efficiency of brain processes
  • Describe three dietary patterns studied for their effects on mental well-being
  • Name one signaling pathway involved in gut microbiota—central nervous system communication (neural, hormonal, immunological)
  • Identify three microbiota-targeted therapeutic approaches in managing mental health disorders
  • List two major hormones involved in appetite regulation

Module 3:

  • Name three key brain regions involved in DMHR
  • Provide one example of how the amygdala shapes future food preferences
  • Name two dietary components that positively influence hippocampal function
  • Explain one way the prefrontal cortex guides dietary intake behavior
  • Recite how poor diet can influence prefrontal cortex performance and cognitive and decision-making processes regarding food
  • Name the brain region that receives hunger and fullness signals
  • Name the brain region involved in reward and habit formation
  • List three positive dietary influencers of neurogenesis
  • Recite three ways dietary intake modulates neuroplasticity
  • Define ‘neurotrophins’ and name two dietary components modulating their brain levels
  • Name two neuropeptides involved in appetite regulation
  • Recite the mechanism by which dietary antioxidants reduce neuroinflammation in the brain

Module 4:

  • Define “neuroimmunological mechanisms” in the context of DMHR
  • List the primary components/branches of the immune system
  • Explain two ways the immune system modulates brain function
  • Describe three ways immune system dysregulation can influence mental disorders
  • Identify two nutrients found in our diet that influence the immune-brain interplay
  • Name three ways chronic inflammation can impact brain structure and function
  • Name three dietary factors that suppress inflammation
  • Identify three impacts of oxidative stress on brain function
  • Explain how microglial activation leads to neuroinflammation and its effects on mental health, listing three outcomes
  • Identify two dietary factors that influence microglial activation and neuroinflammation
  • Define the blood-brain barrier (BBB) and explain its primary function
  • List two specific ways that disruption of the BBB disrupts mental health
  • Identify two dietary factors that influence BBB integrity and permeability
  • Explain three ways immune system dysregulation can impact mental disorders
  • Identify two dietary factors that affect mitochondrial function

Course Logistics

CNP is approved to sponsor Continuing Education (CE) for professionals through the following organizations:

  • The American Psychological Association (APA) to sponsor Continuing Education (CE) for Psychologists;
  • The California Association of Marriage and Family Therapists (CAMFT Provider #1000102) for LMFTs, LCSWs, LPCCs, and LEPs;
  • The Commission on Dietetic Registration (CDR) for licensed Dietitians and Dietetic Technicians Registered (RDs/DTRs) through Activity Type 742 Eligible Enduring;
  • The National Board of Certified Counselors (NBCC) for National Certified Counselors (NCCs).

CNP maintains responsibility for this program and its content. CNP, the organization offering this course, is committed to ethical standards, resolving conflicts of interest in its programs, and ensuring unbiased, evidence-based education. Registering for NP 110 indicates that you have read and agreed to CNP’s Course Policy.

NP 150 Part I provides 39.25 CE for Psychologists, RDs, DTRs, LMFTs, LCSWs, LPCCs, and LEPs, and 37.25 CE for National Certified Counselors (NCCs). For NCCs, The National Board of Certified Counselors excludes learner time spent on syllabi, quizzes, and the course final. Please contact the NBCC should you have questions.

Prerequisites

There are no prerequisites to take NP 150 Part I, the fourth of five courses in the Introductory Certificate in Nutritional Psychology (NP 100 Series). However, taking this course before enrolling in NP 150 Part II is recommended. Those wanting to obtain the introductory certificate in NP should take all five courses in the following sequence: NP 110, NP 120 Part I, NP 120 Part II, NP 150 Part I, and Part II.

Scope of Practice

This course presents evidence, knowledge, and conceptual learning (psychonutritional education) on how MGBA (and diet) influence all aspects of the diet-mental health relationship within nutritional psychology. This course is not designed to provide diagnosis, nutritional, or therapeutic intervention outside of one’s existing professional scope of practice. This course does not provide the following:

  • Guidelines for incorporating assessment, diagnosis, or intervention into clinical practice
  • Materials for dietary recommendations or nutritional/mental health interventions
  • A method for weight loss or weight control, or a “cure” for mental health disorders
  • A license to practice nutritional or psychological interventions or provide medical advice

This course provides the following:

  • ​​Proficiency in analyzing and interpreting MGBA-DMHR research, enabling critical thinking and evidence-based decision-making
  • The skills to effectively communicate and educate others about the psychonutritional aspects of the MGBA-DMHR, empowering individuals to make informed dietary choices to support mental health
  • Awareness of the factors influencing the MGBA-DMHR, including lifestyle, stress, and environment
  • Knowledge of emerging research and advancements in microbiota-based interventions, including probiotics, prebiotics, and fecal microbiota transplantation, providing insights into innovative mental health treatment and prevention approaches
  • The opportunity to network and collaborate with experts, researchers, and professionals in the study of MGBA-DMHR, facilitating interdisciplinary dialogue and the exchange of ideas

Q&A

NP 150 Part I Course Q&A

A: Yes, this course is taught fully online through the CNP educational platform and can be completed at your own pace. Note: once enrolled, each course has a time limit to complete (usually several months and in NP 150 Part I case -- four months).

A: Yes, NP 150 has open enrollment, and you can begin any time.

A: NP 150 Part I is estimated to take 34.5 hours to complete, depending on your learning style and previous experience in nutrition and psychology and whether you've taken NP 110. If this information is new to you, or you are a deep learner, it may take more time to complete.

Citing the whole course (NP 150): Instructor(s). (Year). Title of course [Type of course]. Name of Platform. URL Example: Behairy, S. F. (2024). Mechanisms in the Diet-Mental Health Relationship (DMHR) [Online course]. The Center for Nutritional Psychology. https://www.nutritional-psychology.org/np-150/ Citing a specific module: Instructor(s). (Year). Title of module or chapter. In Title of course [Type of course]. Name of Platform. URL Example: Behairy, S. F. (2024). Biological mechanism in DMHR. In Mechanisms in the Diet-Mental Health Relationship (DMHR) [Online course]. The Center for Nutritional Psychology. https://www.nutritional-psychology.org/np-150/ Intext citation: (Behairy, 2024)

A: Yes, a brief description of nutritional psychology is published in: Elsner, F., Matthiessen, L. E., Średnicka-Tober, D., Marx, W., O'Neil, A., Welch, A. A., Hayhoe, R. P., Higgs, S., van Vliet, M., Morphew-Lu, E., Kazimierczak, R., Góralska-Walczak, R., Kopczyńska, K., Steenbuch Krabbe Bruun, T., Rosane, B. P., Gjedsted Bügel, S., & Strassner, C. (2022). Identifying future study designs for mental health and social wellbeing associated with diets of a cohort living in eco-regions: Findings from the INSUM expert workshop. International journal of environmental research and public health, 20(1), 669. https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph20010669

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Student feedback

"This course will definitely help me in my study and practice. I have an interest for the subject and understood the key role and importance of our dietary patterns and mental health. I now know specifics to integrate in my life and practice, to help clients, patients, students, family and friends. It validates my values and desires to learn and support others with this information, helps me help people to have conscious and awareness of their dietary intake and how much it affects their lives."

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NP 150 Part I Course Authors and Contributors

Shereen Behairy, PhD. (cand)

Shereen F. Behairy is a dedicated Clinical Pharmacist specializing in Pharmacology and Toxicology. She holds a Master’s degree in Pharmaceutical Sciences and is currently pursuing a Ph.D. in Neuropharmacology. Her research focuses on the intricate mechanisms by which drugs impact neurochemistry and cognitive function, aiming to advance therapies for mental health disorders.

Shereen’s academic journey includes foundational studies in both nutrition and psychology from Stanford University and Yale University. Her commitment to bridging these disciplines is underscored by her clinical research training at Harvard Medical School, where she refines her skills in advanced research methodologies and clinical study design. As an Associate Member of both the Harvard Medical Alumni Association (HMAA) and the Harvard Alumni Association (HAA), Shereen actively contributes to shaping the future of pharmacological and neuroscientific research, integrating diverse fields of study to uncover innovative approaches that enhance mental health outcomes.

Nabila Pervaiz, MS, Phil

Nabila is a life science researcher with a Master’s degree in Biotechnology. She works as a research intern at the Pakistan Council of Scientific and Industrial Research (PCSIR). She is interested in studying the intricate relationship between microbes and the human body and how they impact individual health and well-being. Her research specialization is in Health Microbiology and primarily revolves around E.coli, identifying and documenting the emergence of virulent E.coli genes responsible for Urinary Tract Infections (UTIs) in women. By presenting her groundbreaking research findings, Nabila aims to educate young girls and women on the importance of personal hygiene, the latest antibiotic resistance trends, and the significant influence of microbes on both physiological and psychological states.

Ephi Lu, MS, Dip.C.N.

Ephi Lu developed and taught the first nutritional psychology course for mental health professionals through JFK University in 2008. She co-founded The Center for Nutritional Psychology (CNP) in 2015 to begin systematically identifying, consolidating, and displaying the world’s evidence base in the diet-mental health relationship. She is committed to fostering the development and inclusion of evidence-based psychonutritional education within the psychological and nutrition sciences.

Module 1: Introduction to DMHR

Through a multidimensional approach, this Module introduces the complex interrelations within the DMHR, encompassing biological, neurobiological, neuroimmunological, psychoneuroimmunological, psychological and behavioral, social and environmental, and developmental mechanisms. Beginning with an overview of DMHR’s scope, significance, and historical evolution, the course delves into the origins of the connection between nutrition and mental health, tracing back to Hippocrates and through various cultural and historical lenses. By merging historical insights with modern empirical evidence, the course underscores the importance of informed research and evidence-based practices in understanding and applying nutritional psychology, setting a solid foundation for professionals in addressing the intricacies of diet and mental health.

Module 2: Biological Mechanisms in DMHR

Module 2 of our educational series delves into the Biological Mechanisms underpinning the Diet-Mental Health Relationship (DMHR), thoroughly examining how dietary choices affect cognitive functions, emotional resilience, and overall mental health. This module is structured into units that explore a wide range of topics, from the essential roles of macronutrients and micronutrients in brain function, neurotransmitter synthesis, and cognitive regulation to the cognitive and stress resilience benefits of phytonutrients, neuroactive compounds, and various herbal remedies like Ginkgo Biloba and Ashwagandha. Additionally, this module addresses the impact of nutritional deficiencies, the importance of early-life nutrition, the effects of different dietary patterns such as the Mediterranean and Ketogenic diets, and the significance of the gut-brain connection through the Microbiota-Gut-Brain Axis. Furthermore, it discusses the crucial role of hormonal regulation and energy balance in mental well-being, highlighting the interaction between diet, key hormones (insulin, leptin, ghrelin, cortisol), and neuroendocrine pathways. This comprehensive exploration illuminates the complex biological mechanisms linking diet to mental health and underscores the profound influence of nutrition on our psychological and neurological well-being.

Module 3: Neurobiological Mechanisms in DMHR

Module 3 of our enlightening course delves into the Diet-Mental Health Relationship (DMHR) from a neurobiological perspective, comprehensively exploring how diet influences mental well-being through intricate brain mechanisms. This journey illuminates the critical roles of specific brain regions—such as the amygdala, hippocampus, prefrontal cortex, hypothalamus, and striatum—in managing emotions, memory, decision-making, appetite, and the reward system, all of which are integral to our dietary choices and mental health. Further, we explore the neurobiological underpinnings of DMHR, including the impact of neurotransmitters, neurogenesis, neural repair, neuroplasticity, neurotrophins, neuropeptides, and neuroinflammation on our mental well-being. By understanding how specific nutrients and dietary patterns affect these mechanisms, we gain insights into fostering brain resilience, adaptability, and overall health, underscoring the holistic and multidirectional approach of the DMHR framework.

Module 4: Neuroimmunological Mechanisms in DMHR

Module 4 of our educational series offers a deep dive into the Neuroimmunological Mechanisms within the Diet-Mental Health Relationship (DMHR), highlighting the significant role of the immune system in mental well-being and how diet can influence this complex interplay. It begins with an exploration of how the immune system interacts with brain function and mental health, including the impact of immune system dysregulation on various mental health disorders. This module further examines the immunomodulatory effects of specific nutrients, the importance of bidirectional communication between the immune system and the brain, and the relationship between inflammation, oxidative stress, and mental health. Additionally, it covers the roles of microglia and neuroinflammation, the significance of the blood-brain barrier (BBB), and the function of mitochondria in brain health, emphasizing how dietary choices affect these components. This comprehensive exploration sheds light on the critical connections between diet, the immune system, and mental well-being, providing a detailed understanding of the neuroimmunological underpinnings that influence our mental health.

Table of Contents

NP 150 Part I:: Mechanisms in the Diet-Mental Health Relationship (DMHR)

Module 1: Introduction to DMHR

Discover the scope, significance, and historical perspectives of the DMHR.

Estimated time to complete:

6.5 hours

Module Quiz

16 questions/30 min

Module Overview
Terms & Definitions
Module Introduction
Unit 1: Scope, Significance, and Historical Perspectives of DMHR

1. Scope of the DMHR

    • 1.1. Nutrients and Mental Health (video)
    • 1.2. Dietary Patterns and Mental Health
    • 1.3. Blood Sugar Regulation
    • 1.4. Microbiota-Gut-Brain Axis (MGBA)
      • 1.4.1. Microbiota and Gut Health
      • 1.4.2. MGBA and its Significance
      • 1.4.3. Implications for DMHR
    • 1.5. Psychological Factors and Eating Behaviors
    • 1.6. Cultural, Socioeconomic, and Lifestyle Factors
      • 1.6.1. Cultural Factors
      • 1.6.2. Socioeconomic Factors
      • 1.6.3. Lifestyle Factors
    • 1.7. Individual Variability (video)
    • 1.8. Lifespan Nutrition and Mental Health
      • 1.8.1. Prenatal and Early Life
      • 1.8.2. Childhood and Adolescence
      • 1.8.3. Adulthood
      • 1.8.4. Aging and Elderly
    • Unit 1 Section 1 Recap
    • Unit 1 Section 1 Knowledge Check

2. Significance of the DMHR

    • 2.1. Nutrition Education and Mental Health
    • 2.2. Early-Life Nutrition and Mental Health
    • 2.3. Gut-Brain Ax is and Psychobiotics
    • 2.4. Nutrition Interventions for Mental Disorders
    • 2.5. Cultural Factors and Dietary Practices
    • 2.6. Nutrigenetics and Personalized Nutrition
    • 2.7. Mindful Eating and Emotional Well-being
    • 2.8. Culinary Therapy and Mental Health
    • 2.9. Holistic Approaches to Mental Health Management
    • 2.10. Public Health Policy and Mental Health
    • 2.11. Interdisciplinary Collaboration for Mental Well-being
    • Unit 1 Section 2 Section Recap
    • Unit 1 Section 2 Knowledge check
  1. 3. Historical Perspectives of the DMHR (video)
    • 3.1. Ancient Civilizations and Traditional Beliefs
    • 3.2. Medieval and Renaissance Periods
    • 3.3. 18th and 19th Centuries
    • 3.4. Early 20th Century
    • 3.5. Mid-20th Century
    • 3.6. Late 20th Century
    • 3.7. Current Understanding
    • Unit 1 Section 3 Section Recap
    • Unit 1 Section 3 Knowledge check

Unit 2: Introduction to Key Mechanisms in DMHR

  • 1. Biological Mechanisms
  • 2. Neurobiological Mechanisms
  • 3. Neuroimmunological Mechanisms
  • 4. Psychoneuroimmunological Mechanisms (video)
  • 5. Psychological & Behavioral Mechanisms
  • 6. Social and Environmental Factors
  • Unit 2 Recap
  • Unit 2 Knowledge check

Module Conclusion

Table of Contents

NP 150 Part I:: Mechanisms in the Diet-Mental Health Relationship (DMHR)

Module 2: Biological Mechanisms in DMHR

Explore dietary and nutrient mechanisms, the Microbiota-Gut-Brain Axis (MGBA), and hormonal regulation & energy balance through a biological lens.

Estimated time to complete:

9 hours

Module Quiz

28 questions/30 min

Module Overview
Terms & Definitions
Introduction to Biological Mechanisms and DMHR
Unit 1: Dietary and Nutrient Mechanisms

  • 1. Essential Nutrients for Brain Function
    • 1.1. Macronutrients
    • 1.4.1. Carbohydrates
    • 1.4.2. Proteins
    • 1.4.3. Fats (video)
    • 1.4.4. Macronutrient Balance
    • 1.1. Micronutrients
  • 2. Phytonutrients and Neuroactive Compounds
    • 2.1. Phytonutrients
    • 2.2. Neuroactive Compounds
    • 2.2.1. Caffeine
    • 2.2.1. Choline
    • 2.2.3. Tryptophan (video)
    • 2.2.4. Dietary Nitrates
    • 2.2.5. L-Theanine
  • 3. Herbal Remedies and Adaptogens
    • 3.1. Herbal Nootropics and Cognitive Enhancement
    • 3.1.1. Ginkgo Biloba
    • 3.1.2. Bacopa Monnieri (video)
    • 3.2. Herbal Adaptogens and Stress Resilience
    • 3.2.1. Rhodiola Rosea
    • 3.2.2. Ashwagandha
  • 4. Nutritional Deficiencies and Mental Health
    • 4.1. Vitamin and Mineral Deficiencies (video)
    • 4.2. Omega-3 Fatty Acid Deficiency
    • 4.3. Protein and Amino Acid Deficiencies
    • 4.4. Antioxidant Deficiencies
  • 5. Early-life Nutrition and Brain Development
  • 6. Dietary Patterns and Mental Health
    • 6.1. Mediterranean Diet
    • 6.2. MIND diet(video)
    • 6.3. Ketogenic Diet
    • 6.4. Western Diet
  • Unit 1 Recap
  • Unit 1 Knowledge Check (Case Study)

Unit 2: Microbiota-Gut-Brain Axis (MGBA) Mechanism

  • 1. Mechanisms of Gut-Brain Communication
  • 2. Gut Microbiota Evolution and Brain Development
  • 3. Gut Microbiota, Nutrition, and Brain Health
  • 4. Microbiota-Targeted Therapeutic Approaches
    • 4.1. Probiotics
    • 4.2. Prebiotics (video)
    • 4.3. Synbiotics
    • 4.4. Postbiotics
    • 4.5. Psychobiotics
    • 4.6. Fecal microbiota transplantation (FMT)
  • Unit 2 Recap
  • Unit 2 Knowledge Check

Unit 3: Hormonal Regulation & Energy Balance Mechanism

  • 1. Key Hormones in Energy Balance
  • 2. Energy Balance and Mental Well-being
  • Unit 3 Recap
  • Unit 3 Knowledge Check

Module Conclusion
Module 2 Download Kit: Optional Supplementary Material

Table of Contents

NP 150 Part I:: Mechanisms in the Diet-Mental Health Relationship (DMHR)

Module 3: Neurobiological Mechanisms in DMHR

Delve into brain regions involved in DMHR (e.g., amygdala, hippocampus, hypothalamus) and brain mechanisms such as neurotransmitters, neuroinflammation, and neuroplasticity through a neurobiological lens.

Estimated time to complete:

11.25 hours

Module Quiz

21 questions/30 min

Module Overview
Terms & Definitions
Introduction to Neurobiological Mechanisms in DMHR
Unit 1: Brain Regions Involved in DMHR

  • 1. Amygdala: Emotional Processing and Dietary Influence
    • 1.1. Amygdala and Emotional Processing
    • 1.2. Diet and Amygdala (video)
  • 2. Hippocampus: Memory, Learning, and Mood Regulation
    • 2.1. Hippocampus and Memory
    • 2.2. Hippocampus and Learning
    • 2.3. Hippocampus and Mood Regulation
    • 2.4. Diet and Hippocampus
  • 3. Prefrontal Cortex: Decision-Making and Diet Management
    • 3.1. Prefrontal Cortex Functions
    • 3.2. Diet and Prefrontal Cortex (video)
  • 4. Hypothalamus: Appetite Regulation and Dietary Control
    • 4.1. Hypothalamus and Appetite Regulation
    • 4.2. Diet and Hypothalamus
  • 5. Striatum: Reward Processing in Food Selection
    • 5.1. Ventral Striatum: Pleasure, Reward, and Emotional Eating
    • 5.2. Dorsal Striatum: Habit Formation and Food Selection
  • Unit 1 Recap
  • Unit 1 Knowledge Check (Case Study)

Unit 2: Brain Mechanisms Involved in DMHR

    • 1. Neurotransmitters: Modulating Mood, Cognition, and Behavior
        1.1. Neurotransmitter Influence on Mood, Cognition, and Behavior

1.2. Dietary Influence on Neurotransmitters

  • 2. Neurogenesis and Neural Repair: Fostering Brain Resilience
      2.1. Neurogenesis and Neural Repair

2.2. Dietary Influence on Neurogenesis and Neural Repair

  • 3. Neuroplasticity: Shaping the Brain’s Adaptability through Diet
      3.1. Introduction to Neuroplasticity

 

3.2. Dietary Influence on Neuroplasticity (video)

  • 4. Neurotrophins: Supporting and Sustaining Brain Health
      4.1. Introduction to Neurotrophins

 

4.2. Dietary Influence on Neurotrophins

  • 5. Neuropeptides: Influencing Mood, Stress Responses, and Eating Behavior
      5.1. Introduction to Neuropeptides

 

5.2. Neuropeptides and Mood Regulation

5.3. Neuropeptides and Stress Response

5.4. Neuropeptides and Eating Behavior (video)

5.5. Dietary Influence on Neuropeptides

  • 6. Neuroinflammation: Bridging Brain-Body Interactions through Diet
      6.1. Introduction to Neuroinflammation

 

6.2. Neuroinflammation and Mental Health

6.3. Dietary Influence on Neuroinflammation (video)

  • Unit 2 Recap
  • Unit 2 Knowledge Check (Case Study)

 

Module Conclusion
Module 3 Download Kit: Optional Supplementary Material

Table of Contents

NP 150 Part I:: Mechanisms in the Diet-Mental Health Relationship (DMHR)

Module 4: Neuroimmunological Mechanisms in DMHR

Understand the impact of the immune system, inflammation, oxidative stress, blood-brain barrier (BBB), microglia, and mitochondria on DMHR through a neuroimmunological lens.

Estimated time to complete:

7.25 hours

Module Quiz

29 questions/30 min

Module Overview
Terms & Definitions
Introduction to Neuroimmunological Mechanisms and DMHR
Unit 1: The Immune System and Mental Health

  • 1. Overview of the Immune System
  • 2. Immune System Modulation of Brain Function
  • 3. Immune System Dysregulation and Mental Disorders
  • 4. Dietary Influence on Immune-Brain Interplay (video)
  • Unit 1 Recap
  • Unit 1 Knowledge Check (Case Study)

Unit 2: Inflammation and Mental Health

  • 1. Overview of the Inflammatory Response
  • 2. Chronic Inflammation and Mental Disorders (video)
  • 3. Dietary Factors Contributing to Inflammation
    • 3.1. Dietary Suppressors of Inflammation
    • 3.2. Dietary Triggers of Inflammation
  • Unit 2 Recap
  • Unit 2 Knowledge Check (Case Study)

Unit 3: Oxidative Stress, Antioxidants, and Mental Health

  • 1. Overview of Oxidative Stress
  • 2. Oxidative Stress and the Brain
  • 3. Antioxidants and Their Protective Role
  • 4. Dietary Influence on Oxidative Stress and Antioxidant Defense
  • Unit 3 Recap
  • Unit 3 Knowledge Check (Case Study)

Unit 4: Microglia and Neuroinflammation

  • 1. Introduction to Microglia: The Brain’s Immune Cells
  • 2. Microglial Activation, Neuroinflammation, and Mental Health (video)
  • 3. Dietary Influence on Microglial Activation and Neuroinflammation
  • Unit 4 Recap
  • Unit 4 Knowledge Check (Case Study)

Unit 5: The Blood-Brain Barrier (BBB)

  • 1. Introduction to the BBB
  • 2. BBB Disruption and Mental Health
  • 3. Dietary Influence on BBB Integrity and Permeability (video)
  • Unit 5 Recap
  • Unit 5 Knowledge Check (Case Study)

Unit 6: The Mitochondria

  • 1. Introduction to the Mitochondria
  • 2. Mitochondrial Function and Brain Health
  • 3. Mitochondrial Dysfunction and Mental Health
  • 4. Dietary Factors Affecting Mitochondrial Function
  • Unit 6 Recap
  • Unit 6 Knowledge Check (Case Study)

Module Conclusion

Continuing Education for Professionals

What does an NP 100 Series Introductory Certificate in Nutritional Psychology provide?

This course provides 39.25 CE/CPEU for Psychologists, Registered Dietitians (RDs), and Dietetic Technicians, Registered (DTRs), Licensed Marriage and Family Therapists (LMFTs), Licensed Clinical Social Workers (LCSWs), Licensed Professional Clinical Counselors (LPCCs), and Licensed Educational Psychologists (LEPs), and 37.25 CE for National-Certified Counselors (NCCs). To receive credit for this course, learners must complete the course in its entirety and the course evaluation.

NP provides university-level, evidence-based Continuing Education (CE) for professionals seeking to deepen their understanding of the relationship between diet and mental health.

By integrating the latest research in nutritional psychology, CNP ensures that its courses are rooted in scientifically validated principles, offering a comprehensive and credible foundation for practice. This commitment to evidence-based education empowers healthcare providers, mental health professionals, nutritionists, and educators to apply cutting-edge insights to their work, bridging the gap between nutrition and psychological well-being.

CNP is approved to sponsor CE for psychologists, mental health professionals, counselors, dietitians, nutritionists, and other professionals whose licensing bodies accept CE from APA, CDR, CAMFT, and NCC. CNP maintains responsibility for this program and its content. If finances are a barrier to accessing our curriculum, see our NP 110 Scholarship Program. Scholarship Program

CNP’s mission is to pave the way for a nutritional component to mental healthcare by 2030. Join us!

CNP is approved to sponsor Continuing Education for:

  • Licensed Psychologists by the American Psychological Association (APA). CNP maintains responsibility for this program and its content.
  • Registered Dietitians (RDs) and Registered Technicians Registered (RTDs) by the Commission on Dietetic Registration (CDR) through Activity Type 742 Eligible Enduring.
  • LMFTs, LCSWs, LPCCs, and LEPs by the California Association of Marriage and Family Therapists (CAMFT Provider #1000102) through the California Board of Behavioral Sciences (BBS).
  • National Clinical Counselors (NCCs) by the National Board of Certified Counselors (NBCC).
  • Is your license not represented? Please email us at info@Nutritional-psychology.org

 

Course Disclaimer

The information in this course is not meant to, nor should it ever be used, to treat, mitigate, or cure psychiatric illness. This information should never be used as a substitute for sound medical advice. This course is educational in nature and is designed to introduce professionals, students, and interested individuals in developing their understanding of the connection between diet and all aspects of psychological functioning and mental health. Best practices for how to integrate this information professionally, ethically, and within the standards of practice will be covered in upcoming courses. While this information can be incorporated into one’s practice within an educational framework, it cannot be used to provide dietary advice, any form of dietary intervention, or to treat any psychological or mental health issues.