As the U.S. continues to struggle with the effects of COVID-19, experts warn of a growing mental health crisis. Invite Uma Naidoo, M.D., a nutritional psychiatrist, to discuss how certain foods can help manage a broad range of emotional challenges, like anxiety, anger, depression and insomnia. Dr. Naidoo says, “When people have chronic stress, their gut microbiome gets out of whack and inflammation sets in. This leads to inflammation in their brain.” You’ll learn the connection between trans-fat, anger and aggression, why snacking on hummus before bed can help you fall asleep faster, and how spices like turmeric and pepper can help reduce inflammation and increase serotonin. Dr. Naidoo is director of the Nutritional & Lifestyle Psychiatry clinic at Boston’s Massachusetts General Hospital. She’s also a professional chef and serves on the faculty at Harvard Medical School. She’s the author of “This Is Your Brain on Food: An Indispensable Guide to the Surprising Foods that Fight Depression, Anxiety, PTSD, OCD, ADHD, and More.” Contact Lissa Warren at (617) 233-2853 (cell); lissawarrenpr@gmail.com
