OVERVIEW:

In this powerful episode, I sit down with Dr. Uma Naidoo—Harvard-trained nutritional psychiatrist, professional chef, and author of the international bestseller This Is Your Brain on Food. Dr. Naidoo is a pioneer in the field of Nutritional Psychiatry, and she’s on a mission to show the world how what we eat directly impacts how we feel.

We dive into the science behind the gut-brain connection and how food can be a powerful tool to support mental health. Dr. Naidoo breaks down key insights from her book, sharing how certain foods can help reduce symptoms of anxiety, depression, brain fog, and even sleep issues. She also offers practical tips on how to start eating to support your mood, focus, and emotional well-being—without overcomplicating things.

What We Cover in This Episode:

The real science behind the gut-brain connection—and why your gut is often called your “second brain”

How specific nutrients and foods influence mood, memory, and mental clarity

Common foods that may be triggering anxiety or depressive symptoms (and what to swap them for)

How inflammation, sugar, and processed foods impact brain health

Key foods to support mental health—from leafy greens to fermented foods

Why food is one of the most underutilized tools in mental health care today

Dr. Naidoo’s personal journey as a psychiatrist and chef—and how her passion for food meets science

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