NUTRITIONAL PSYCHIATRY: A PILOT SURVEY ON DIETARY PRACTICES AMONG MENTAL HEALTH PROFESSIONALS.

Abstract

Background: Nutritional psychiatry is gaining recognition as a complementary approach to improving mental health. Although evidence supports the role of diet and nutraceuticals in psychiatric care, little is known about their integration into clinical practice by mental health professionals. This study investigates the knowledge, attitudes, and use of nutritional strategies among Italian psychiatrists and psychologists.

Methods: A cross-sectional survey was administered to 110 mental health professionals to assess their knowledge of nutritional psychiatry and the practical application of dietary interventions.

Results: Most participants reported discussing nutrition with patients and using dietary strategies, though inconsistently. Psychiatrists were more frequently engaged in nutritional counseling and in preventive strategies for somatic comorbidities. The Mediterranean diet emerged as the most commonly recommended model. Gender differences were noted, with female psychiatrists reporting significantly higher self-rated knowledge.

Conclusions: Italian mental health professionals show growing interest in nutritional psychiatry, yet its routine adoption remains limited by gaps in training and institutional support. Clear guidelines, accessible education, and interdisciplinary collaboration - including with dietitians - are essential to foster its integration into psychiatric care.