Less Stressed Life: Helping You Heal Yourself

#400 Malnourished Mind: Nutrient Deficiencies In Mental Health & Anorexia with James Greenblatt, MD

Apr 30, 2025
Guest
James Greenblatt
Dr. James Greenblatt, an integrative psychiatrist with over 30 years of experience in nutritional psychiatry, explores how nutrient deficiencies like B12, magnesium, and zinc can intensify mental health issues such as anxiety and anorexia. He discusses the surprising implications of zinc deficiency and examines the often-overlooked role of lithium in mental well-being. Listeners learn about the importance of testing for these nutrients and how dietary changes can lead to significant improvements in mental health without drastic measures.
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INSIGHT

Brain's High Nutrient Demand

  • The brain, only 3% of body weight, uses 25% of metabolic energy.
  • It burns micronutrients faster than any other organ, making every nutrient critical.
ANECDOTE

ADHD Nutrition Approach Anecdote

  • Dr. Greenblatt recalls parents divided on medication for ADHD, showing a nutrition-first approach.
  • He used testing to identify deficiencies and treat symptoms with micronutrients like B12 and magnesium.
ADVICE

Test Vital Nutrients Often

  • Always test vitamin B12 and D levels in psychiatric patients to reverse mental illness.
  • Don’t rely on standard 'normal' lab ranges; B12 levels below 500 can still cause symptoms.
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