Nutritional Support's Role in Psychotherapy - How Our Gut and Brain Health Are Related
Psychotherapy, wherever you are!
The best part of running my own Toronto and virtual psychotherapy practice is that I can combine my two passions: psychotherapy and nutrition.
I began my career as a nutritionist, but as I began working with my clients, I found myself often frustrated because I couldn’t provide the mental health support that they needed to really have the breakthroughs they desired for their health.
You see, mental health is incredibly complex, and evidence supports that nutrition can be a useful adjunct therapy for conditions like depression, mood disorders and anxiety. Nutrients such as vitamin D, omega-3 fatty acids and B-vitamins have a significant impact on your mental health and stability.
Let’s dive deeper to truly understand the relationship that our mental and nutritional health share…
OUR BRAIN & FOOD
Your brain is never really “off”. It is responsible for your thoughts, your breathing, the way your body moves, your senses, and other essential functions. Even while you sleep, your brain works hard to consolidate memories and restore and repair your body.
Similar to a car, the brain requires fuel to function. This fuel comes from the foods you eat. Nutrient-dense foods provide your brain with premium fuel. In other words, the foods you eat directly impact the function and structure of your brain, which influences your mood. High-quality foods packed with vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants nourish and protect your brain.
HOW OUR GUT & BRAIN ARE CONNECTED
Your gut and your brain are connected both physically and biochemically in a variety of ways, communicating through the nerves within your nervous system. Your gut and brain are also connected through chemicals called neurotransmitters that your brain produces to control feelings and emotions. You’re likely familiar with the neurotransmitter serotonin, which is our “happy hormone” and contributes to happy feelings. A large portion of serotonin is actually made in your gut, so gut health is essential to mental health.
Have you ever felt butterflies in your stomach or a gut feeling about something? These sensations are indicative of the connection between your brain and your gut. This system of communication between your gut and brain is called the gut-brain axis.
So how can nutritional support really benefit your psychotherapeutic experience?
The Benefits of Nutritional Support on Mental Health:
Take Control of Your Health: Receive the support you need to build and maintain an ideal state of health that is sustainable and enjoyable. Learn how to have more energy, sleep better, manage stress better and feel fantastic overall.
Fuel The Biochemistry of Your Body: It's essential to eat a diet that consists of various foods to ensure all essential nutrients are included. Nutrient-dense foods fuel your body's biochemistry and form the building blocks for the neurotransmitters and chemicals that fuel your brain. Learn how to incorporate new dietary habits that work for you and your individual needs.
Learn How to Supplement Your Diet: Healthy eating alone does not always guarantee that our bodies are getting enough of the nutrients essential to our health goals. Learn about the benefits of supplementing your diet and discover the formulas that are right for you and your specific needs.
A HOLISTIC APPROACH TO HEALTH…
As a psychotherapist and nutritionist, I help you create your own path to optimal health with foods and supplementation that fuel your body and support your mind. No two bodies are made the same; therefore, each body should be treated as uniquely as the person who lives in it.
To ensure you get all the essential nutrients and support your body needs, I use a nutritional assessment called the Nutri-Body to discover your biochemical weaknesses. I’m a Certified Nutritional Practitioner, which allows me to assess and provide full-spectrum customized plans involving diet, nutritional supplements and detoxification.
Not sure if it’s right for you? Book a free consultation, and we will get to know each other and assess if nutritional support is right for you!
I’m Natasha Batshon, a Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying) and Nutritionist offering support both in-person in Toronto, and virtually (wherever you are!)
My practice can support you through anxiety, depression, stress management, low self-esteem, career and education stress, work/life balance, relationship issues, trauma healing, loss and grief, phobias, sleep or insomnia, mindfulness, or a loss of a sense of purpose. I’m multidisciplinary in my approach, meaning I don’t offer just one form of therapy. Instead, I like to combine the most beautiful elements of what each has to offer. Some of the therapeutic techniques I draw on are Cognitive Behavioural Therapy, Narrative Therapy, Solution-Focused Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Psychodynamic Therapy and Mindfulness-Based Therapy.
Not sure if it’s right for you? Book a free consultation and we will get to know each other and assess if virtual therapy and nutritional support are right for you!
P.S. While I am a registered psychotherapist, please note that this blog post is for informational purposes, and does not contain specific psychotherapeutic advice. If you feel you need psychotherapeutic support, please contact me.