Anxiety and depression are widespread in our society, and the diet we consume plays a crucial role in contributing to these issues. In my work, I have encouraged clients to consume a diet high in red meat and low in carbohydrates to improve mental health. This dietary change was instrumental in overcoming my personal struggles with anxiety attacks, depression, compulsive overeating, sugar and carb addiction, as well as drug and alcohol addiction, and achieving long-term stability in recovery.
Scientific research supports the healing potential of red meat in mental health. A study at Deakin University in Australia found that increasing red meat consumption resulted in a 50% reduction in depression and anxiety among more than 1,000 women. Furthermore, a randomized study showed that a diet high in red meat led to significant improvements in depression and anxiety symptoms compared to a diet high in carbs and processed foods.
Red meat is rich in essential nutrients like amino acids, saturated fat, omega-3s, cholesterol, antioxidants, and vitamins and minerals which are crucial for brain health. These nutrients aid in the production and regulation of neurotransmitters that influence our mood. Additionally, low-fat and low-cholesterol diets have been associated with increased depression and suicide rates, highlighting the importance of these nutrients in mental health.
Contrary to popular belief, red meat does not directly cause cancer, heart disease, or inflammation. However, it is important to consume organic, grass-fed red meat to avoid harmful substances. Moreover, a diet high in carbohydrates can contribute to inflammation and disrupt hormone balance, which can lead to mental health issues.
Aside from dietary changes, addressing environmental toxins, microbial overgrowth, inflammation, and chronic stress is essential to combat anxiety and depression. By combining a diet rich in red meat with environmental and lifestyle changes, significant improvements in mental health can be achieved.
If you want to improve your mental health, feel free to contact me. Together, we can identify dietary and environmental factors contributing to your mood states and work towards a better quality of life.
References
1. Jacka FN, et al. “Red meat consumption and mood and anxiety disorders.” Psychother Psychosom. 2012;81:196–198.
2. Jacka FN, et al. “A randomized controlled trial of dietary improvement for adults with major depression (the ‘SMILES’ trial).” BMC Med. 2017;15(1):23.
3. Sears, A. Primal Plate Trumps Prozac. Doctor’s House Call Email Newsletter. September 2019.
4. Partonen, T., J. Haukka, J. Virtamo, P. R. Taylor, and J. Lonnqvist. “Association of Low Serum Total Cholesterol with Major Depression and Suicide.” The British Journal of Psychiatry 175.3 (1999): 259-62.
