The Mediterranean diet stresses the importance of quality sourcing and filling your plate with nutrient-rich whole foods and grains.
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Include PTSD therapy in the already extensive list of health benefits enjoyed by Mediterranean dieters.
A recent study suggests that this diet, which focuses on whole foods, may help alleviate symptoms of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) by positively impacting the gut microbiome – a vital component in digestion and nutrient balance.
Co-corresponding author Yang-Yu Liu stated, “There is a very intriguing relationship between the human gut microbiome and the brain.” The study examined the association between diet and PTSD symptoms, moving scientists closer to providing dietary recommendations for PTSD prevention or relief.
The highly regarded Mediterranean lifestyle, known for improving physical and mental well-being, avoids processed foods and emphasizes the consumption of fresh vegetables, fruits, healthy fats, lean proteins, and whole grains.
Researchers analyzed medical data from 191 volunteers, dividing them into three groups: probable PTSD, exposed to trauma but without PTSD, and no trauma exposure.
Participants provided stool samples at the beginning and six months later for microbial DNA analysis to ensure stability over time.
After evaluating the participants’ overall microbiome structure, PTSD symptoms, and dietary information, the study, published in the journal Nature Mental Health, found that those adhering to a Mediterranean diet experienced fewer PTSD symptoms.
Specifically, diets high in red and processed meats worsened PTSD symptoms, while plant-based foods appeared to mitigate them.
Co-corresponding author Karestan Koenen, professor of psychiatric epidemiology at the Harvard Chan School, said, “Examining the gut-brain axis can provide insights on the interdependence of mental and physical health.” The findings suggest that exploring the relationship between PTSD, diet, and the gut microbiome could lead to recommendations for reducing the negative health consequences of PTSD.
Investigators also investigated the association between specific gut bacteria species and PTSD symptoms and discovered that those who found relief from symptoms while on the Mediterranean diet had higher levels of Eubacterium eligens in their gut.
Co-corresponding author Yang-Yu Liu expressed excitement about the findings, stating, “It’s exciting that our results imply that the Mediterranean diet may provide potential relief to individuals experiencing PTSD symptoms. We are eager to learn more about the relationship between PTSD, diet, and the gut microbiome. In a future study, we will attempt to validate the efficacy of probiotics as a method to prevent PTSD.”
The Mediterranean diet, which has been named the best overall diet for six consecutive years by US News & World Report, focuses on sourcing quality food and including nutrient-rich whole foods and grains in your meals.
Other recent studies have shown that adhering to the Mediterranean diet reduces the risk of premature death by 29% and lowers the chance of heart disease and early death in women by nearly 25%.
