Do Therapists Consider Gut Health When Discussing Mental Health

[guest_3459233]

So I’ve been feeling kinda off lately, like nauseous and also kind of anxious, and I’ve started wondering if it has to do with gut health and the things I've been eating. I’ve been reading a little about how gut health can actually impact mental health, and it’s got me thinking a lot. I’m curious if anyone else has noticed a connection between what we eat and how we feel mentally or emotionally. Do you think therapists would take gut health into account when talking about mental health or is it something that usually gets overlooked in discussions?

[Appleblossom]

Some do and some don’t. It depends on their personal experiences. @guest_3459233 I am talking to an older demographic and even they are finding gut health important… and I know a few embracing keto….

I believe it does matter a lot although there are other variables… Eg personal biology and level of stress in circumstances.  Also I don’t believe people should be shamed for food choices as there are many reasons why people eat as they do.

 I grew up in extreme poverty with low levels of protein and high carbs…. But not junk or processed food. Couldn’t waste money on rubbish. I did science a long time ago and try and do the right thing by my body and the people I feed. I ran a vegan, paleo, keto friendly kitchen. Generally I eat less carbs and more protein these days and I am grateful. 

[Ru-bee]

Hi @guest_3459233 and welcome to the forums!

This is a great question, and I'd love to hear other's experiences in this. I would say to my knowledge it's not always something that is discussed with therapists as it isn't traditionally included in their training, though it may certainly be something that certain therapists have taken additional time to study. I would encourage looking into holistic therapists, as they aim to address the person as a whole, looking not just mental, but physical aspects as well. 

[Sparky79]

@guest_3459233 Welcome, I'm sure there's a saying "You are what you eat", I don't remember eating anxiety and PTSD though.

As a former comfort eater I learnt first hand they are 100% linked, especially when you're gluten intolerant and don't realise it.

When I was feeling crap I was eating crap, for a brief moment of enjoyment. Unfortunately this was then followed by guilt and disgust with myself. Choosing the healthy options when seeking comfort food did alleviate the guilt and disgust, it also helped with blood sugars and the mood swings associated with sugar highs and lows. So yes I have noticed if I'm eating good foods I am usually feeling good (about that part of my life at least).

Since going gluten free and minimising egg (due to yolk allergy) my body has changed and I have lost a significant amount of weight [edited by moderator] in the last 6 months (not intentional unfortunately) which I have attributed to increased stress and C-PTSD, this has also increased my nausea, stomach cramps and bloody stools (apologies for the TMI).

Thankfully the old vicious circle of feeling crap, eating crap and feeling crappier hasn't been an option as finding yummy gluten free things that don't break the bank is very hard.

[Ru-bee]

Good to hear that you're really able to feel a noticeable difference when you're eating foods that are more nourishing @Sparky79! It sounds as though having these revelations about your diet have been really helpful for you.

Just a quick note that we've removed the specific amount of weight lost, in line with our community guidelines, it's an easy one to miss sometimes!

[Sparky79]

@Ru-bee oops sorry about that, I'll have to have a re-read of the guidelines.