Nutraceuticals in Psychiatric Disorders: A Systematic Review

Int J Mol Sci. 2024 Apr 28;25(9):4824. doi: 10.3390/ijms25094824.

Abstract

Correct nutrition and diet are directly correlated with mental health, functions of the immune system, and gut microbiota composition. Diets with a high content of some nutrients, such as fibers, phytochemicals, and short-chain fatty acids (omega-3 fatty acids), seem to have an anti-inflammatory and protective action on the nervous system. Among nutraceuticals, supplementation of probiotics and omega-3 fatty acids plays a role in improving symptoms of several mental disorders. In this review, we collect data on the efficacy of nutraceuticals in patients with schizophrenia, autism spectrum disorders, major depression, bipolar disorder, and personality disorders. This narrative review aims to provide an overview of recent evidence obtained on this topic, pointing out the direction for future research.

Keywords: nutraceuticals; omega-3 fatty acids; probiotics; psychiatric disorders.

Publication types

  • Systematic Review

MeSH terms

  • Dietary Supplements*
  • Fatty Acids, Omega-3 / therapeutic use
  • Gastrointestinal Microbiome
  • Humans
  • Mental Disorders* / diet therapy
  • Mental Disorders* / therapy
  • Probiotics* / therapeutic use

Substances

  • Fatty Acids, Omega-3

Grants and funding

This research received no external funding.