The Role of Nutrition in Supporting Student Mental Health and Holistic Wellbeing
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.29070/zwz09784Keywords:
Cognitive Performance, Gut–Brain Axis, Neuroinflammation, Nutritional Psychiatry, Student WellbeingAbstract
The escalating burden of mental health disorders among students necessitates a multidimensional approach to prevention and management. Nutrition has emerged as a critical, modifiable determinant of mental health, influencing neurobiological processes such as neurotransmitter synthesis, neuroinflammation, oxidative stress, neuroplasticity, and gut–brain axis signaling. This review provides a comprehensive synthesis of current evidence linking nutrition with student mental health and holistic wellbeing, with a strong emphasis on underlying biological mechanisms. Additionally, it explores dietary patterns, key nutrients, and practical interventions tailored to student populations. Evidence suggests that optimized nutrition enhances psychological resilience, cognitive performance, and emotional regulation. Integrating nutrition-based strategies into student health frameworks offers a sustainable and cost-effective approach to improving mental health outcomes.
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