What’s Fueling Our Mental Health Crisis and How Can We Fix it? | Dr. Jaquel Patterson
Mark Hyman
Aug 14, 2024
Mindsip insights from this episode:
Incorporate sauna use to enhance brain health and reduce inflammation
Using a sauna regularly can lower inflammation markers like CRP in the body and has even been shown in long-term studies to reduce the risk of mental health issues, including schizophrenia. This is an easy lifestyle habit that supports brain health and overall wellbeing.
Incorporate curcumin to enhance stress resilience
Adding curcumin (from turmeric) to your diet can increase your ability to handle stress by about four and a half times, according to recent research. It works by lowering inflammation, which is linked to better mood and mental health.
Incorporate colorful fruits and vegetables to combat anxiety
Eating more colorful fruits and vegetables, especially those rich in flavonoids like berries and citrus, can help reduce symptoms of anxiety and depression. A diverse, plant-rich diet supports better mental and physical health.
Boost magnesium intake for better brain function and mood
About 80% of people may not get enough magnesium, a mineral crucial for brain function, focus, and mood. Magnesium helps balance brain chemicals and can be boosted through diet or supplements.
Support gut health with probiotics for improved mood
A healthy gut with plenty of good bacteria like Lactobacillus and Bifidobacterium is linked to lower rates of anxiety and depression. Probiotics, fermented foods, and fiber-rich diets can help support a happier, healthier mind.
Fill nutrient gaps to boost brain health and mood
Most Americans are missing key nutrients like iron, magnesium, zinc, B vitamins, and vitamin D, which are vital for brain health and mood. Filling these gaps with food or supplements can make a big difference in how you feel.
Reduce screen time to restore brain balance and emotional regulation
Technology and social media provide constant dopamine hits, which can dysregulate your brain, increase anxiety, disrupt sleep, and make emotional regulation harder. Cutting back gradually on screen time can help restore balance.
Engage in forest bathing to lower inflammation and boost mood
Spending time in nature, also called 'forest bathing,' can significantly reduce inflammation in the body and improve mood. This simple practice helps your mind and body recover from stress.
Prioritize joyful activities to enhance mental health
Doing things that bring you joy, like dancing, hiking, or hobbies, boosts your brain's feel-good chemicals and supports mental health. Making time for fun and connection is as important as diet or exercise.
Adopt ketogenic and Mediterranean diets to support brain health
Diets like the ketogenic and Mediterranean (including the MIND diet) have shown benefits for brain health, especially in supporting people with conditions like schizophrenia and dementia. These diets focus on healthy fats, lots of plants, and minimizing processed foods.
Utilize lab tests to uncover root causes of brain fog and anxiety
Lab tests for inflammation, nutrient levels, and gut health can uncover hidden reasons for brain fog, anxiety, or depression. Addressing these root causes often brings significant improvement without just relying on medication.
Build supportive communities to combat loneliness and enhance well-being
Loneliness is a major risk factor for mental health struggles. Building and maintaining a supportive community—through group therapy, social activities, or simply connecting with others—can dramatically improve well-being.
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