Potential Benefits of Specific Nutrients in the Management of Depression and Anxiety Disorders

Depression and anxiety are widespread mental disorders globally, imposing significant burdens on both individual and societal health. With the continuous advancement of research in the field of mental health, the influence of nutrition on psychological well-being has emerged as an increasingly important area of study. A growing body of evidence suggests that specific nutrients may play a crucial role in the prevention and treatment of depression and anxiety, particularly in the regulation of neurobiological mechanisms. Nutrients such as omega-3 fatty acids, vitamin D, B vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants have been shown to offer potential benefits in modulating brain function, alleviating inflammatory responses, and enhancing neurotransmission. This review consolidates recent research on the relationship between these nutrients and depression/anxiety, exploring the possible mechanisms through which they contribute to neural health improvement. The paper also outlines potential future research directions in this area. By providing this comprehensive overview, this paper aims to offer new insights for future mental health interventions and promote the clinical application of nutritional approaches in psychological care.