Nutritional Strategies in Major Depression Disorder: From Ketogenic Diet to Modulation of the Microbiota-Gut-Brain Axis.

ABSTRACT

Major depressive disorder (MDD) is a leading cause of disability worldwide. While traditional pharmacological treatments are effective for many cases, a significant proportion of patients do not achieve full remission or experience side effects. Nutritional interventions hold promise as an alternative or adjunctive approach, especially for treatment-resistant depression. This review examines the potential role of nutrition in managing MDD through addressing biological deficits and modulating pathways relevant to its pathophysiology. Specifically, it explores the ketogenic diet and gut microbiome modulation through various methods, including probiotics, prebiotics, synbiotics, postbiotics, and fecal microbiota transplantation. Numerous studies link dietary inadequacies to increased MDD risk and deficiencies in nutrients like omega-3 s, vitamins D and B, magnesium, and zinc. These deficiencies impact neurotransmitters, inflammation, and other biological factors in MDD. The gut-brain axis also regulates mood, stress response, and immunity, and disruptions are implicated in MDD. While medications aid acute symptoms, nutritional strategies may improve long-term outcomes by preventing relapse and promoting sustained remission. This comprehensive review aims to provide insights into nutrition's multifaceted relationship with MDD and its potential for developing more effective integrated treatment approaches.