Pastoral Wellbeing 

Nutrition and Mental Health

When children and young people have access to nutritious food and a healthy relationship with eating, it can positively impact their lives.

How are nutrition and mental health linked?

Eating foods from a range of food groups can help children and young people cope better with stressors, manage their emotions and improve sleep – which are essential for their learning and development.

Most research about nutrition and mental health has focused on adults. We know that

eating nutritious foods that provide adequate fuel and nutrition for that person’s body and brain is associated with improved mental health outcomes. We also know that poor nutrition is associated with a greater risk of mental health conditions such as depression and anxiety conditions.

Emerging research that focuses on children and young people is helping to better

understand the link between nutrition and mental health in children and young people.

Food, eating behaviours and mental health are complex issues and influenced by many

factors. Children and young people with lower nutrient dense diets are at an increased risk of experiencing emotional, behavioural and developmental challenges which may include:

• hyperactivity and/or increased frustration and aggression

• poor concentration, focus and tiredness

• decreased immune system function

• delayed brain and physical development

• low iron and iron deficiency, which has been linked to cognitive function impairments and memory.

• nutrient deficiencies and malnutrition, which have been associated with mental health conditions including depression and anxiety

• poor academic performance

• mental health conditions, such as depression and anxiety

• social and friendship challenges.

https://beyou.edu.au/resources/fact-sheets/wellbeing-and-stress-management/nutrition-and-mental-health