Systematic and Narrative Review of the Mediating Role of Personal Relationships Between Mental Health and Nutrition

Background/Objectives: The complex relationship between nutrition and mental well-being has been widely documented, with empirical evidence supporting both the influence of dietary habits on psychological health and, conversely, the impact of mental state on food choices. However, a critical gap rem...

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Detalles Bibliográficos
Autores: de Miguel, Aránzazu, Agejas Esteban, José Ángel, Agejas, José Ángel, Orón Semper, José Víctor, Orón, José Víctor
Tipo de recurso: artículo
Fecha de publicación:2025
País:España
Institución:Universidad Francisco de Vitoria
Repositorio:DDFV. Repositorio Institucional de la Universidad Francisco de Vitoria
Idioma:inglés
OAI Identifier:oai:ddfv.ufv.es:10641/6848
Acceso en línea:https://hdl.handle.net/10641/6848
Access Level:acceso abierto
Palabra clave:diet
interpersonal relationships
mediating effect
mental health
nutrition
well-being
Food Science
Nutrition and Dietetics
SDG 3 - Good Health and Well-being
Yes
yes
Descripción
Sumario:Background/Objectives: The complex relationship between nutrition and mental well-being has been widely documented, with empirical evidence supporting both the influence of dietary habits on psychological health and, conversely, the impact of mental state on food choices. However, a critical gap remains in understanding the mechanisms underlying this interaction. While previous literature have examined various biological and psychological mediators, limited attention has been given to the potential mediation role of interpersonal relationships in shaping this dynamic. This article seeks to address this theoretical gap by exploring how the quality of social interactions—both in their intentional dimension and in their lived experiential aspect—may function as a key mediator between nutrition and mental well-being. Methods: Methodologically, a combination of systematic review (PRISMA) and narrative review was employed, given that the findings of the systematic review alone are insufficient to formulate a hypothesis that requires interdisciplinary dialog in a still emerging and underexplored field. Results: The hypothesis we aim to propose is whether the quality of interpersonal relationships acts as a catalyst and enhancer of the effect of nutrients on mental health. Conclusions: This could open new avenues for the design of dietary interventions and mental well-being programs from a socially integrated approach.