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MoodMatters Dietetics

Can Dietitians Influence Neuroplasticity?

Published 8 months ago • 1 min read

Nutrition For Mental Health

MoodMatters Dietetics

Bringing you the latest information and the happenings in Nutritional Psychiatry

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Hi Reader!

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Coming in with a short email this week!

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I wanted to chat real quickly about neuroplasticity, a topic that seems to be receiving increasing attention lately.

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Neuroplasticity refers to the brain's ability to adapt to situations. In essence, increasing neuroplasticity gives the individual a better ability to have flexible thought patterns.

A more academic definition is "the ability of the nervous system to change its activity in response to intrinsic or extrinsic stimuli by reorganizing its structure, functions, or connections.”

Improving neuroplasticity is a major focus in helping people overcome traumatic brain injuries, but it has received attention lately to help people manage their anxiety.

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As far as dietitians go, we can play a role in improving neuroplasticity in our clients and patients.

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The biggest driver of this, which we can influence, is increasing the amount of Brain-Derived Neurotrophic Factor (BDNF).

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Despite its name, the muscles produce BDNF when they are worked. This is believed to be one way that exercise improves mental health.

As dietitians, we absolutely discuss the role of movement in physical and mental health. Encourage people to find movement they enjoy rather than feel forced to walk a treadmill or lift weights.

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Other ways a dietitian can influence BDNF production and neuroplasticity:

  • Adequate intake of omega-3 fats
  • High intake of polyphenols from plants
  • High protein intake, particularly from BCAA appears to induce BDNF production similar to voluntary exercise.
  • Avoid long-term high-fat diets, such as keto.

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That's it today, nice and short, right?

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I also want to FINALLY announce that I have finished my free email course, titled Brain Fuel Basics. If you're on the wait list, you should be getting an email about this soon.

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Otherwise, you can sign up to get started.

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See you next week!

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Jennifer Hanes MS, RDN, LD

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P.S. Follow me around the web!

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113 Cherry St #92768, Seattle, WA 98104-2205
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MoodMatters Dietetics

Advancing Mental Health Through the Lens of Nutritional Science

I am a registered dietitian who specializes in nutrition as an adjunct therapy for mental health and illness. Just like you, I did not learn about nutritional psychiatry in school. The only psychiatric education we had was a general overview of eating disorders, and my preceptors flat-out told me not to worry about psychiatric medications when reviewing patients. What makes that even worse is that this location had a psychiatric unit on site! Yet, driven by an insatiable thirst for knowledge and fueled by the hyperfocus bestowed upon me by ADHD, I delved deep in to the scientific research that my patients needed. Immersed in the diverse landscapes of numerous mental health facilities, I gained invaluable firsthand experience that illuminated the profound impact nutrition can have on mental well-being. So now I'd like to pass all this knowledge and experience on to you, fellow healthcare practitioners!

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