The role of nutrition throughout the lifespan

Nutrition and lifestyle choices begin shaping mental health and brain function from the first moments of life. Even before birth, nutrients delivered from the mother interact with foetal DNA, influencing the development of cells, enzymes, and the neural circuitry that will support cognitive and emotional health across the lifespan. These nutrient-gene interactions don’t stop after birth; they continue to play a central role in growth, repair, and the day-to-day functions required for mental wellbeing (Bekdash, 2024).

When it comes to mental health, these same interactions are just as crucial. Our brains and nervous systems rely on the right nutrients at the right times, not just for development, but for handling stress, regulating mood, and thinking clearly. If something goes off track, problems can crop up. Sometimes, the issue is in our genes—mutations can make it harder for our bodies to produce certain enzymes or brain chemicals. Other times, it’s about what’s missing from our diet. Without enough of the nutrients our brains need, those vital chemical reactions slow down or stop. And then there are environmental factors — toxins, pollution, or even chronic stress — that can interfere with how our genes and nutrients work together.(Suárez-López et al., 2023; Granero, 2022). Environmental toxins, chronic stress, and other lifestyle factors may also interfere with nutrient-gene interactions, further increasing the risk of mental health disorders (Waheed et al., 2024; Himmerich & Mirzaei, 2024).

It’s no surprise, then, that recent clinical guidelines are urging a broader approach to mental health care. For example, the Autism CRC guidelines and National ADHD clinical treatment guidelines  recommend that doctors  consider not only medication and therapy, but also nutrition, exercise, sleep, and stress management as part of a comprehensive, multimodal treatment plan (Wong et al., 2024; Teasdale et al., 2025). Recent research and expert consensus highlight that good mental health depends not just on treating symptoms, but on supporting the brain and body with the nutrients and healthy habits they need to thrive (Marcelli et al., 2025; Marx et al., 2023).

Australian Dietary Guidelines

The National Health and Medical Research Council released the Australian dietary guidelines in February 2013. This is the fourth edition of dietary guidelines in Australia (first edition 1982, second edition 1992, third edition 2003). The next revision is scheduled for 2026.

The main thrust of the proposed 2026 Australian dietary guidelines is expected to include several key updates:

  • Greater focus on sustainability: The guidelines will likely address not only health and nutrition but also environmental sustainability, reflecting the unique ways food is produced in Australia and the need for food choices that are both healthy and environmentally responsible (UWA; ABC News).

  • Emphasis on plant-based and lean proteins: There will be a stronger push toward consuming more lean proteins and plant-based sources, such as fish, poultry, beans, and legumes, with moderate intake of dairy, eggs, and lean meats (Nutriblooms; The Nutrition Academy).

  • Continued advice for balanced, varied diets: The guidelines will maintain recommendations for balance, variety, and moderation in food choices, echoing the principles in previous editions (NHMRC).

  • Review process: The NHMRC is undertaking a transparent and evidence-based review, including public consultation and expert input. The final guidelines will be informed by the latest scientific evidence and feedback from stakeholders (NHMRC).

  • Anticipated publication: The updated guidelines are scheduled for release in late 2026 (NHMRC). The expected changes reflect both updated nutritional science and broader considerations of environmental impact and public health.

Role of nutritionist and Dietician

A dietitian or nutritionist working within a psychology clinic may provide the following services, in collaboration with other health professionals:

  • Nutritional assessment and support: Assessing dietary habits and nutritional status, and providing evidence-based guidance to support overall health and well-being.
  • Management of eating disorders: Working as part of a multidisciplinary team to support patients with diagnosed eating disorders, in line with best-practice guidelines.
  • Education on nutrition and mental health: Offering information about the relationship between diet and mental health, including how certain nutrients may influence general well-being.
  • Support for medication-related nutrition concerns: Advising on managing potential nutritional side effects associated with some medications, as appropriate.
  • Assisting with behaviour change: Supporting patients in making informed choices about food and eating patterns, always within the scope of practice and in accordance with current guidelines.
  • Participation in integrated care: Collaborating with psychologists and other health professionals to provide patient-centred care.

Dietitians and nutritionists providing these services must hold appropriate qualifications and registration, and all advice or interventions are based on current, credible evidence. No guarantee of specific outcomes can be made, and all care is tailored to individual needs, in line with relevant professional standards and legal requirements.

 

Updated on 03/03/2026 by Dr Jacques Duff- BA Psych; Grad Dip Applied Psychology PhD; MAPS
Reviewed on: 05/03/2026 by: Bernard Ferriere- Clinical Psychologist; BA; Grad Dip Applied Psychology; Dip Clinical Hypnosis; MAPS