Nourishing the mind: how food security influences mental wellbeing

Food insecurity represents a significant public health challenge globally, intricately linked to mental health outcomes. This narrative review investigates the effects of food insecurity on mental well-being, highlighting its critical role in achieving Sustainable Development Goals 2 (zero hunger) and 3 (good health and well-being). A thorough literature search was conducted through PubMed and Google Scholar, supplemented by relevant reports and policy documents. The findings reveal a profound interrelationship between food security and mental health, shaped by factors such as socioeconomic conditions, access to nutritious food, and societal inequalities. The review culminates in recommendations for incorporating food security into mental health strategies, advocating for approaches such as sustainable farming practices, urban agriculture initiatives, and digital mental health services. These recommendations underscore the necessity for collaborative interdisciplinary efforts and systemic reforms to tackle these interconnected challenges effectively. [NPID: Food insecurity, inequalities, socioeconomic, mental health, well-being, interdisciplinary, policy]

Year: 2024

Reference: Ejiohuo, O., Onyeaka, H., Unegbu, K. C., Chikezie, O. G., Odeyemi, O. A., Lawal, A., & Odeyemi, O. A. (2024). Nourishing the Mind: How Food Security Influences Mental Wellbeing. Nutrients, 16(4), 501. https://doi.org/10.3390/nu16040501

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