The surprisingly dramatic role of nutrition in mental health | Julia Rucklidge | TEDxChristchurch

[@user-lz4ne7ls5p]

I recently went off my antidepressants and started a whole food diet of veggies, fruit, chicken, tofu, and fish, and am amazed at how I feel. My partner doesn't recognize me... in a GOOD way. My energy has tripled, my sleep is the best it's ever been, I'm crushing workouts, and I haven't had a panic attack or depressive episode since the diet began. This TED Talk is the real deal. I wish more people knew.

[@lisataylor7516]

Amazing testimony Thankyou!

[@KR-em9ri]

So for you, no gluten, no refine sugar ? Ps : happy that ur health is better :) you go!

[@MaDaSaorig]

I have BP, anxiety and all the issues that are associated with them. I have a good diet, take less meds & practice mindfulness mediation. I still struggle with the some issues associated with these disorders. I recently tried tapping and it has helped reduce anxiety, shame, racing thoughts anger. I highly recommend adding it to your life.

[@ronniebattle1310]

@@MaDaSaorig Encounter Ministries KZbin page. (Mark Hemans)**

[@lindamoore1108]

HOW does one even begin such a radical change?

[@MasteringAdulthood]

Nutrition, Exercise, Mindfulness Meditation, and Sleep. These are the foundations of the skills I teach as a behavioral psychologist. Soon we will look back on these as the dark ages of mental health, and embrace what our bodies need! Thank you for this inspirational talk!

[@savannahwhitacre1531]

Lara Fielding can’t take you seriously saying “are bodies” lol

[@leesorenson6119]

I am in Flint Michigan and I am watching my city devolve. I'm blaming our water, but I have so many friends who struggle with mental illness and take bags of drugs. I bought my house on crack alley with the intent to change it to urban arbor community. I'm failing, but diplomat pharmacy world headquarters is now occupying what used to be Fisher body. We made cars. $3000000000 worth a year. Now with u of m, Kettering, Michigan state, Mott all telling us knowledge is power we are in over our heads for a glass of clean water 5 years after the discovery of 1965 . can you help please?

[@leesorenson6119]

Kathrine Alamo has a degree from Cornell and teaches nutrition at Michigan state university and has a 2+ acer farm across the street from me. I have been at this for 25 years, she started 15 ago.

[@cametochangemyusername-can1295]

You forget meaningful social connection. 😁

[@ksc743]

Lara Fielding. So true. And as someone else commented, social interaction as well. The world would be a different place.

[@gp7577]

As a society I think we don't educate kids enough about how important foundational habits are to lifelong health for themselves and their children. Moderate exercise, healthy food, strong communities, loving and safe home environments, all of these things are so fundamental to the mental health outcomes of everybody.

[@historyZZ]

Yes we do. They teach several years of learning about eating right and working out from such a young age. It's the. parents fault for letting their kids be unhealthy.

[@selenagillespie5056]

,pl O

[@ChilleDINJerseY]

@@historyZZ Not sure you can make that blanket statement. You in every school in the country?

[@ChilleDINJerseY]

Also philosophy! Approaching how one thinks, how to process feelings, and live a good life serving others. Start with stoicism?

[@historyZZ]

@@ChilleDINJerseY have I been to every school board in America? No. Because remember it's not decided by the school. Have I ever seen a school that's never done a minimum of 4 years of health and physical education from grade 6 plus? Also no.

[@aaroncorrea1809]

I can’t believe we need scientific studies to connect these dots, but glad this message is getting out there…

[@kelbop3882]

My thoughts exactly.

[@TrevorHamberger]

you severely underestimate the matrix which we live in.

[@namehere4954]

It is phenomenally amazing that people always separate mental health from the rest of the body as if it's not attached. What you put in your body directly feeds the brain - it needs nutrient dense calories to thrive.

[@amberchristine4133]

My exact thoughts!!

[@czhaok]

It's not that we NEED a study to tell us this. But that's just science. You can't say anything as a fact without proving it first, there's nothing wrong with that.

[@gaiainanna9069]

No food is cheap food. The price is paid somewhere. Nicely said

[@Ghrainne]

obviously there are talking about the price at the check-out. Relatively speaking IN US food is cheap especially from the middle isles. I would like to know where you buy your food. LOL

[@Donna777]

@@itisprofile You said it. Sad isn't it??

[@ashotofmercury]

@@Ghrainne no, you totally misinterpreted that! 🤦🏻‍♀️

[@Flockfitness101]

Just posted a new video on my experience being Vegan , wether your for or against its an interesting video and it’s worth a watch. If you enjoy make sure to subscribe and like it means a lot !!!

[@christopherfiorentino6552]

I switched to a whole food diet one week ago for health problems and was amazed at how it has affected my mood..for the first time in eight years , I made it through an entire day without a single panic attack or depressive episode

[@crusindc5282]

Chris: mint tea is a natural mood elevator and has been known as such for centuries.

[@Melted_Butter]

How’d it work out 2 years later?

[@Flockfitness101]

Just posted a new video on my experience being Vegan , wether your for or against its an interesting video and it’s worth a watch. If you enjoy make sure to subscribe and like it means a lot !!!

[@zinkadu]

How about specifying WHAT micronutrients!

[@angielbdelauter8666]

@@crusindc5282 o pool o polo

[@rygi23]

This woman is BRAVE. Bless her heart for speaking truth. Many before her that support natural remedies over those that profit big pharmaceutical have been dealt with swiftly. Being malnourished is making us nuts.

[@gordont29]

Brave, yes. Speaking the truth for many, yes. But blaming big pharmaceutical for the publics malnutrition is doing the same thing they are doing for the public, pushing the big red EASY button to solve a problem. For the public it's taking a pill to solve a problem, what your comment is doing is blaming corperations for the lack of dicipline by the public to actually make their own meal instead of pulling it from a box.

[@sallybowles2781]

​@@gordont29 unfortunately it is quite possible that the same forces that push chemical medications are the same forces that push fast food and candy and additives and hormones and antibiotics in meat and glyphosate on produce and general malnutrition. Unless those forces find their interests in nourishing people, the "food rebels" will always be a minority, the majority will do as they see done on TV.

[@realitymuzic357]

@@sallybowles2781 it’s sad when you take a step back and realize it’s all for monetary gain. The pharmaceutical and food industries don’t really care about our health and longevity, just lining their pockets.

[@MJWINNER_Sketchbook999]

NUTS ARE A NATURAL BLOOD THINNER. so may not need aspirin and other blood thinner medications.

[@Donna777]

@@MJWINNER_Sketchbook999 Fish oil, garlic, and water too.

[@OzSafe1]

When I was 15yo I was diagnosed with a mental illness and placed in a mental asylum. 45 years later I discovered I had a biological illness, not a mental one. For the past 7 years I have stuck to a strict diet high in nutrition and have not relapsed. I now live a life free from prescribed drugs, physiologists and mental homes.

[@john-wo4rv]

Bro that's mental good work.

[@1DarkBlossom]

What was it, if I may ask?

[@lanceanderson4531]

@@1DarkBlossom This

[@OzSafe1]

@@1DarkBlossom Extreme bipolar disorder. It all started when I suicided at 15yo. (Obviously they revived me).

[@1DarkBlossom]

@@OzSafe1 Thanks for sharing. It’s very interesting indeed. I’ve had a few vitamin deficiencies. B5, B9, D3, B12 and iron. No doctor cared to tell me because they were in the verge of deficiency level. It was awful. Take good care guys, because doctors aren’t gonna help you.

[@SeanFlembling]

98% reduction in cost is exactly why big pharma will fight this tooth and nail to their dying breath. Their greed will kill us all so long as they can get rich in the process. Thank you for your inspirational research

[@crankinozzer]

Not kill us, we're the golden goose as long as we eat poorly, stay sedentary and sick!

[@arthurdick9553]

@@crankinozzer You have a point. But make no mistake they are going to kill a lot of us. They already have if you really take notice. Your model is the old way. This is new.

[@grizz6582]

And the government will back them the whole way.

[@craig1857]

Moderna Pfizer J&J

[@Chris-kr7gg]

It's culling time.

[@Joe-sk6fz]

All I did was make sure I got 6-9 servings of veggies a day, take a few low-cost supplements for some chronic illnesses I've had and stopped binge eating. I eat whatever I want, in moderation and make sure I get in these nutrients. I'm improving drastically in my anxiety and depression.

[@heathermarykell3063]

Trouble is we have always had mental illness long before there was junk food

[@kananvendi]

Can you tell me what to eat

[@angelmarie304]

This sounds like a good balance :) And must be much easier to stick to long term than some of the restrictive diets out there.

[@kassrripples3659]

@@kananvendiJoseph look up the banting green list or Dr Eric Westman page four, or Dr. David Perlmutters food lists or Dr. William Davis lists.

[@jkitty.]

heather mary Kell it’s never been this bad before

[@veenajagger7084]

"We are not what we eat but we are what we absorb". Wisely said.

[@savannahl4581]

I was terribly depressed in college--burnt out from taking full time credits and working full time. I "took a year off" (crashed and burned) but in that time off I went vegan. Started eating fresh, whole foods. It turned my life around, truly.

[@MonikaVolkmann]

Wow, good to hear! How is your health today?

[@CarissaWyles]

7 years later and this talk is still so important. Can KZbin blow this up again?

[@OswaldDigestiveClinic]

If you liked this video, you may also want to know that there are a few issues that have to do with nutrition that can result in anxiety! For example, hormone imbalances, caffeine consumption, food sensitivities, and nutritional deficiencies (like with magnesium, vitamin D, vitamin B6, serine, choline, copper, chromium, selenium, and zinc), can all lead to anxiety!

[@rebeccaofpollywogflatts8976]

I'm going through the comments. I hit the like button on the ones I like. Makes that many likes on one video in a short time. Must help

[@Flockfitness101]

Just posted a new video on my experience being Vegan , wether your for or against its an interesting video and it’s worth a watch. If you enjoy make sure to subscribe and like it means a lot !!!

[@SoCoCommunity101]

@@OswaldDigestiveClinic fantastic response! Keep up the good message 👌🏾👌🏾

[@jolenegatto399]

I came across this video while researching the Human Microbiome. It seems the reason diet is effective in regulating mental health is because it produces a better environment for our intestinal microbes to thrive and work efficiently, and they are essential in every biological function. If this video interests you, I would suggest watching a few TED Talks on the Human Microbiome as well. Lots of fantastic and fascinating information. Keep up the great work! I loved reading some of the other comments by those of you who were successful in changing your mental health simply by making some of these dietary changes. Very exciting! The way we look at medicine and other treatments is changing, and imo that is a very good thing!

[@myown2101]

Effective nutritional therapies for various health conditions have been around for decades. The information that you are quoting is not newly discovered, but rather wilfully ignored.

[@breezy3725]

@@myown2101 Excellent reply! Rothschilds aka Big Pharma destroyed Alopathic medicine.

[@rustyb.1301]

also, when an individual makes the decision to eat healthier, this action is recognized by their psyche as self-love, which has automatically a positive impact on their mental health. exercise, personal cleanliness, dressing in a way that makes you feel comfortable and so on all equal positivity, which leads to better mental health.

[@martinburrows6844]

Yes!!

[@mdenmark604]

Good point!

[@rafaelalfaro7396]

@@punkinhoot I know your struggle all too well. I’ve been going through what you’re describing for the last 14 year’s 😢 it truly sucks 😮‍💨

[@mi3helle707]

💯

[@karencurran3447]

​@@martinburrows6844 you are too small

[@als1023]

8 years later, this talk well stands the test of time. There is no question now of the value of nutrition and the effects of the ' western diet' on young people and their futures. Just look at America today, the obesity, the unhappiness in many, the gang lifestyle, the incarceration rate, the prescription uptake . Thanks for posting !! Wish this researcher well, she gets it !!

[@OSNLebuna]

Look at America today. They need their nutrients fs.

[@KRiZZxTV]

There's a lot of questionable things that have occurred within the last 50 years that make it hard to gauge if mental health has really declined as a whole. Today, its more socially acceptable to be depressed and everyone has a platform to vent on with social media. The U.S. suicide rate peaked around 1985. I believe the "gang lifestyle" peaked in the 80s-90s. The incarceration rate has been impacted major factors such as the war on drugs, three strike laws, and other legislation.

[@CaptainManic2010]

I'm overwhelmed by beautiful scientists like this. We are blessed to have you. Thank you

[@tea98988]

20 years later, I proved my Stanford doctor WRONG. I did not need to be on medication for the rest of my life for bipolar. and I’m doing great!

[@KristySI]

Good for you!

[@saranohmusic57]

🙌💖

[@Dani-k6w7p]

So happy to hear you are doing well!

[@dominicks19]

茶姐 Tea 👍 good on ya. Enjoy it

[@tea98988]

Thank you, everyone. I am the lucky few. I’ve been off my medication for so long but I realized it is not possible for some people. Eating right is soooo important. Even more important than those hardcore exercises. Gratitude and surround yourself with only the positive people. Detox not just your body but your life.

[@stellasoares8780]

This video changed and saved my life in 2017. Thank you Doctor!

[@juliarucklidge3644]

delighted to hear that!!!

[@gracewells5429]

This is so interesting because when I first saw this I instantly thought mental illnesses were becoming more common because they’re more spoken about, and we have a better understanding of the them. But then I thought about how my sister was diagnosed with anxiety about 5 years ago. Around the same time she started to get really healthy, just by chance, to lose weight. She was exercising regularly and eating well. She had therapy but was never given medication. I can remember what she was like before she was diagnosed, I saw her have lots of panic attacks and how she would obsess and worry about things, talking to me about the same things constantly. And she’s kept up that diet and exercise since, and has been SO much better since I can’t even tell you. I know she didn’t have the micronutrients, and I’m sure the therapy helped, but it really shows mental health can be affected by how healthy we are :)

[@deeapple1096]

you said she was eating well which typically include fresh fruits and vegetables, the source of micronutrients.

[@gracewells5429]

@@deeapple1096 ooh thanks, I should’ve realised that when she compared them to vitamin pills😅

[@egypt6868]

Yes, this is true. However, fruits and vegetables are the best source. Meat only contain those micronutrients because animals eat plants or consume animals that have eaten plants. The further up the food chain, the less concentration of nutrients. 😊🥦

[@cheesybits834]

I can attest to this. I had a similar situation except I got my blood tested and they told me where I was lacking and within weeks of vitamins, eating and exercise I was pretty healthy. My hair grew better too

[@krumelmonster3589]

Well party of therapy of depression is to get patients to be more active in their daily lives. To do sports, be physically active, to meet people, building friendships etc. So from what you’re saying what your sister did is changing her diet to more nutrients, yes. But also lifestyle changes that we would suggest in Psychotherapie. So in my opinion you need both.

[@debevans8757]

I've seen a huge improvement in my mental health from changing my diet - primarily avoiding processed foods, eating gluten free and very low sugar.

[@mohansinghrajput1504]

Plz can u tell me how r u now and r u following still

[@LorraFae]

Changing my diet made EVERY BIT OF DIFFERENCE IN THE DAMN WORLD TO MY MENTAL HEALTH. Nothing has been as effective. I'd probably be dead by now if I hadn't done so. Raw plant based diet for almost 9 years and no medication.

[@GrishaKrivchenia]

Awesome... Glad it's working for you. I hope you're also supplementing B12, D3, and DHA, since those are almost impossible to get from plant foods alone.

[@LorraFae]

Yep. Not DHA, But I take magnesium, B12, and D when I can't get sunlight on my skin most of the year.

[@GrishaKrivchenia]

Good! But check out the research on DHA (an essential fatty acid). I think you'll be happy that you did! nutritionfacts.org/video/should-vegans-take-dha-to-preserve-brain-function/

[@bluejay3447]

there's a vegan brand of DHA, most contain fish oil but the one I have is made from algae

[@WorldOfARandomVegan]

Lorra Fae Wow, awesome.

[@KarinaLicursi]

Last summer I got diagnosed with an iron deficiency. Before taking supplements and eating healthier, I was feeling depressed, not wanting to eating and would even have mild hallucinations. I was almost ready to get admitted. Nutrition has helped me a lot and now aside from some depression, I'm okay. I also take vitamin d in the winter.

[@jaytoulouse9785]

I highly recommend taking vitamin D every day because most Americans have deficiencies that last all year.

[@christinepiwowarczyk4270]

Please follow Dr. Jack Kruse. He recommends spending as much time in the sun as you can, without sunglasses. You need tge light to enter the eye. At night use blueblockers (blocks bluelight), & look into red-light. Here's to your health! P.s. try to ground outside every day too!!

[@echase416]

Yes, anemia can contribute to mental illness. It’s the most common deficiency globally.

[@jorobinson5132]

This has just been my experience! Pins and needles and numbness in hands and feet, face numbness, tongue feeling swollen, limbs burning and panic attacks and uncontrollable leg tremors.I have always been health conscious and this shook me. Turned out low FERRITIN! Now coming out of it thank goodness and they tried to get me to take antidepressants 🥲

[@TheRiderGuider]

Vit D every day. So important.

[@ellendidion1233]

As a parent, teacher and concerned citizen I applaud you. Thank you for this important message and contribution to awareness. It’s my hope that it leads to international policy changes.

[@camillac.s.279]

Hopefully .. depends on US tho . Where you put your money ?? Because our society is lead from people which action are only influenced from MONEY . Sorry for my English today , I hope the message is clear anyway .

[@WW-yb2fc]

Very informative and well done. I am a physician, and have been offering this as an option for my patients for the past 14 years. The results have varied from outstanding for the majority , to on the rare occasion, no improvement. One needs to keep an open mind. No doubt , our understanding of the importance of optimal nutrition in our daily health is very poor. It is long overdue for more research to be done in this very important subject. You can be certain that if this could be patented, Big Pharma would invest billions in this . Keep up the good work , Julia, and thank you for doing this TEDx presentation.

[@kassrripples3659]

Do you know about PreKure?

[@ilfiore934]

You recommend Whole Food Plant Based diet, right?

[@SBluesBrotherhood]

Problem is that Big Pharma is already making a LOT of money by manufacturing and pushing their drugs onto people. Don't slaughter the goose that laid the golden egg, right? SAD comment that I heard years ago that really stuck with me is that "Doctors make more money TREATING illnesses than they would for CURING them".

[@leannebrookes1604]

I loved this. As someone who has had a terrible diet most of my life and suffered with depression and anxiety, it really makes sense. I am now aiming to eat more nutritious meals and have definitely noticed a difference in my over all mental wellbeing. I really hope that in the future, this sort of research will have an impact on the general public and they start to think twice. We shouldn't let 'tasty' processed food ruin our health, it's not worth it. Thanks for sharing, Leanne

[@ilfiore934]

And/or we should make whole foods just as tasty! We can do it

[@youandmevegan]

I don't have a mental disorder-as fas I know-but I do notice that consuming mainly unprocessed foods on a daily basis boosts my mood dramatically, whereas junk food makes me feel mentally foggy, unmotivated and sluggish. Personally, I don't believe in quick, easy fixes regarding health. I think that eating a whole food, plant based diet might be the solution for a myriad of problems we're facing: illnesses such as heart disease, diabetes and obesity, climate change and the unethical treatment of factory farmed animals. And who knows, maybe even mental illness. It's worth a shot!

[@flowgo5299]

I have been trying to eat a more ketogenic diet, only because I am trying to get far far away from starch and sugar.. I do NOT love eating meat to be honest, but I find if I just eat vegtables, although my diet is 70% vegtables, I am still hungry. So I look for a small portion of protein and healthier fats with each meal. Sometimes I can skip meals and I do enjoy vegetarian dishes so much!! But I avoid soya, because it GMO and so NOT good for you in North America anyways. How do people eat just raw food diet? Is it just vegtables all day? I eat about 5-10 cups of green leafy vegtables a day, and I make pizza crust from cauliflower or will have "pasta" for dinner... (my pasta is zuchinni etc usually) but again, meat! and cheese often... otherwise I still feel hungry... but if I could do it, I would!

[@youandmevegan]

I'm no dietitian, but the evidence seems to suggest that raw vegan diets are not nutritionally complete, whilst normal vegan diets can be. I think it's very important to include all food groups from the plant kingdom, fruits, vegetables, nuts, seeds, legumes, but also whole grains. If you do skip grains, it's possible that you aren't meeting your caloric requirements, even if you're not fully vegan. Vegetables are very low in calories after all, and if you eat them raw, even less is absorbed (remember how humans started cooking to improve caloric and nutrient absoption?). I don't know about soy, in my country they only sell organic and non-gmo. I think it's perfectly healthy as long as it's not very processed and your body feels well and you enjoy it. May I ask what your reasons are to avoid healthy starch and (naturally ocurring) sugar?

[@RC-od9ou]

youandme.vegan ♥ Eating vegan can be disastrous for one's health. I am one that knows from experience. Eggs for example are high in certain B vitamins and minerals. The crucial element in healthy eating is eating whole foods not processed foods. I also believe that everyone has different genetic capacities leading one to an omnivorous diet and another to a vegan diet. I personally eat two eggs every morning and chicken just about every night and at 47, my heart is ticking right along.

[@youandmevegan]

Every diet can be disastrous for one's health if not practiced carefully. You should do a little bit of research if you wish to eat a vegan diet. According to today's science, there is no nutrient the human body needs to acquire exogenously (meaning it doens't synthesize it itself) that can't be obtained from plants, except B12, which needs to be supplemented by all vegans without exception. But if you feel better eating animal products, then good for you. I have nothing to add to that. That is your choice. But please don't irrationally put down veganism because you failed to gather enough information.

[@youandmevegan]

"Natural" is not the goal. Advising against B12 supplements is very irresponsible and could cause someone's nerve damage or death. You can either eat dirt, feaces or animals (thus risking infection and disease) and get your B12 "naturally", take supplements or get nerve damage. Modern hygiene is what prevents us from getting B12 naturally, that's all. BTW there weren't computers 5000 years ago, so what? I don't find it difficult at all to eat a vegan diet, and I see no need to eat exclusively whole foods. If that's what you want to do, perfect. But some processed foods here and there might keep some vegans sane and help them continue to eat in an ethical way. I understand that veganism might seem extreme or like a cult to some people, but for me it's just an easy and healthy way of living according to my compassion.

[@angelusa73]

I took care of children in the US where the family was ok giving the kids the same every day and I had to make peanut butter and jelly sandwiches for lunch for the 3 years I was there and being an Italian myself) I was shocked to see the little knowledge the parents had and how there was no way for me to tell them they were making a mistake in feeding the children with the same thing without any nutrients. I felt powerless because I was "only" a nanny from another country and not from there. Angela, Umbria Italy :)

[@blowitoutyourcunt7675]

Nanny here! Since the advent of nut "milks" I've had to convince several new mums that you cannot switch a baby from breastmilk/formula to almond/cashew/coconut/ect "milk" - they need whole cows milk for proper brain development via omega fatty acids and most if not all of these moms have no background in nutrition are making decisions that could make or break their babies brain development. If they don't get what they need at the crucial time that they need it they may not progress to their full potential! In two different families I had to circumvent Mom Boss to talk to Dad Boss and show him that the nutrition standards the American Academy of Pediatrics recognizes to get the babes what they needed for proper nutrition.

[@rameshpokharel5292]

Thanks

[@happy777abc]

My grandma was from Chiate in Abruzzo region. God bless

[@Antifogasta]

Brilliant! As a professional researcher may I offer you many congratulations on an excellent presentation.

[@melindacooper6046]

I used to work in education, now the mental health field. This video is awesome to show why our children and adults really need good nutrition at a very young age. I seen such negative behaviors with some of my students that ate horrible, processed foods. Thank you for this video! I'm sharing this with my boss and others who will hopefully share with others.

[@kristenturner1222]

I echo that observation from my experience teaching hs math in an inner city school! The difference between the remedial algebra classes and the Pre-Calc classes was night and day, not just cognitively but behaviorally as well. I attribute a significant amount of this to nutrition and lack of proper nutrition in children's homes. I quit teaching and completed a post bacc pre med program - now deciding whether to pursue medicine or psychology or nutrition or a blend of some of these as they all fascinate me. What do you do in the mental health field and do you have any suggestions for someone considering the field and wanting to make a difference for others?

[@ilovetorun09]

I really truly believe this. I just went vegan recently ,eating mostly fruits and veggies, and have seen such positive effects!

[@LiziStardust]

Lindsay Snaer good for you chick. I'm vegan to and it's been nothing but positive for me also

[@saoiray]

Lindsay Snaer Interesting. I went to eating nothing but pizza, chicken tenders, hamburger, french fries, fish sticks, chocolate, ice cream, sodas, and energy drinks. I don't exercise either. I've lost weight and haven't had any symptoms from my depression. I hardly drink water and don't really eat any vegetables outside of potatoes, which I eat fried. I rarely eat fruits. When I do, is usually caramel apples or raisins. Doctors say my diet is horrible but my blood pressure is good, cholesterol and liver are perfect, blood sugar balanced, etc. So you go ahead and keep eating all those fruits and vegetables. I'll go ahead and keep eating my meats and junk food. (^_^)

[@saoiray]

MARJAN Well, is it really self destructive? It wasn't long ago that we said eggs had a significant impact on cholesterol levels but now we say is very minimal and doesn't really blood cholesterol at all. Science is always changing what's good and bad. We're always proving ourselves wrong. The point I'm making is that the people I know who eat "healthy" often get sick, have numerous medical issues, or have died early.

[@saoiray]

MARJAN I don't enjoy the taste of most fruits and vegetables. Truthfully, there are a lot of things to consider when speaking of diets. What to eat, how often one should eat, and the portion size will greatly vary. There's also an adaptation the body needs to go through. When I say adaptation, think about substances like caffeine. If you give somebody who never has had caffeine an energy drink or two, they'll be full of energy and have increased risk of heart troubles. Yet somebody who consumes caffeine regularly builds a tolerance to it. Same with alcohol, it takes way less alcohol to get a person drunk if they've never drank compared to if they're an alcoholic. Genetics, what you grow up eating, and your lifestyle habits will all change what is healthy or unhealthy. Oh, and I tried I diets that focused on fruits, vegetables, whole grains, fish, and lean meats. I also asked from my soda and energy drink only consumption to drinking nothing but water. I ate exactly how I was told by doctors and dietitians. My liver enzymes increased, I gained 20lbs, developed eczema, had acne problems (something never had even in my teen years), and other medical issues. For some reason my body needs or has adapted to a meat and sugar based diet. I also know my grandfather had diabetes but still ate and drank things he wasn't supposed to. He didn't take medication given to him either. After over ten years, doctors are saying he's no longer diabetic. Ironically he doesn't exercise, is overweight, etc. So are weird things going on with what we're preaching as healthy. Lastly, big cause of cancer and other illnesses are additives in things. If you ever look back, it's when we started adding vitamins and/or soy to just about everything we eat that we started seeing major issues. Milk, cereal, bread, water, and many more things have so many additives and changes done to them that it isn't funny.

[@valken666]

Veganism has nothing to do with a proper diet.

[@MrRebustr]

I offer my self volunteer as i believe and been thinking of what she speaks of since i was 8 yrs old walking 10 miles to school and back...i live in Hollywood and i can tell you she is 1000% right and should be considered a hero for her work and dedication

[@valeriecheersbrown4829]

I cried listening to this! Praise God and is anyone listening?

[@larryorrin2470]

Hello dear, how are you doing? Nice meeting you here

[@KATSWEBANDTALE]

God is VERY much for His creation and strengthening love, health and growth.

[@LiLisLounge]

Thank you, Dr. Rucklidge! I am a counselor in training, and I definitely see how food affects mental health. There is not enough recognition of this fact. I'm so glad that you studied this in depth and that this is being acknowledged by some people in our profession.

[@sagek7949]

After suffering from anxiety and depression and brain fog for more than a decade I found a lot of relief by correcting my severe nutritional deficiencies ( Vit d , iron, b12) I also supplemented with b complex, zinc, magnesium, Vit k2, fish oil. I reduced sugar, caffeine, gluten,dairy , processed food intake .I don’t have any vices BTW.

[@sagek7949]

Update: I have been gluten free for almost a year now and I require less doses of supplements . I don’t know what my life would be if I hadn’t identified the root causes.

[@kaavyajaishankar6165]

I think it's important to note that ADHD and Autism are types of neurodiversity. There are other things that influence the rise of diagnoses, including awareness from health professionals, teachers and parents and access to information. Increased awareness of how ASD and ADHD present in women has also increased. It might not account entirely for the increase, but still a really important consideration to have. Not to dispute the argument and evidence here, just some points to add for context 😊

[@joycebrewer4150]

As a woman undiagnosed until my late 50's, I can't agree more.

[@Kingkids26]

Absolutely. Diagnosed at 40( with what I know I've had my while life.) It made it hard to hear the rest of the talk. In fact I haven't but I am hopeful that the rest is informative.

[@toplectures]

I whole heartedly agree; that point in the talk frustrated me enormously as a woman with adhd. Also, 92 days ago (yes, I keep count because I’m really proud of my progress), I consulted with my doctor and rigorously changed my diet to guidelines similar to the ones described by this speaker (Mind you, I did not stop taking my medication but my medication hasn’t changed in years, the only significant change I made was in my diet). And while I still experience ADHD symptoms, they are less impactful and (what I did not expect) my overal mental health got significantly better: I’m much less anxious and stressed, I sleep much better and have much better impulse control. So, for me personally, speaking at this moment and after a little less than 100 days of a radically different diet, it appears that diet brought me significant mental health improvements. It is also a very costly diet in money and time. I am extremely lucky to be able to make these changes and for me the benefits outweigh the price, but I do not see this change being affordable (in both the money and the time it costs) for most people. So my thoughts about this video are very mixed. Some of the dietary changes discussed have greatly benefited my mental health, but the way she portrays rising number of diagnoses without important context really rubs me the wrong way. Regardless, I hope people who are interested in exploring what a different diet can do for their mental health are able to give it a chance in consultation with their doctor.

[@scvnlolo2813]

just live ur life

[@skidjs]

Made up.

[@melindarussell8235]

You are what you absorb. You have a similar message to some of the other scientists and health professionals who lectured at the Institute for Integrative Nutrition in NY. If you haven't been invited to lecture there, or have an interest in it I think they would really appreciate your work!!! Thank you for your courage. I work with a nutritional supplement line and have been saying for years that their fish oil is one of the key things I would give just about anyone. It is a superior formulation, and in general I advocate using supplementation and dietary changes to assist the body in doing what it is designed to do for itself. Inflammation disguises itself in many ways! Thank you Julia.

[@juliejohnston3534]

Best TED talk I've ever seen. Thank you Professor Rucklidge! As a Clinical Psychologist I try to encourage clients to take an active role in lifestyle factors that can help them manage their situation. I will be now be emphasising the role of nutrition more emphatically!

[@goingboldaciousforchrist]

She's right. I've never seen this talk, but know that nutrition worked to solve my mental health issues, along with sleep, faith practices, moderate exercise, and boundaries. I simply avoid toxic people and situations. I practice radical self-care, but my food and supplements play a huge role in that, so I prioritize the purest of both, eating an organic, plant-based diet. It's been a game changer.

[@ronniebattle1310]

Encounter Ministries KZbin page. (Mark Hemans)**

[@edekmiodek3712]

Until you run out of vit b12

[@EnthuAboutLife]

Ma'am each and every word you spoke is invaluable 🎉 Thanks for guiding us and giving us such an important knowledge...

[@megha1938]

What I got out of this talk is even though some drugs give you a quick fix, it is not a long term solution. i am always reminded that we are so impatient and want "quick" fix for our problems, I discovered this in myself as I went through two cataracts this year. I was looking for instant results, but it took a while (4-5 weeks) before the true results became apparent. It was quite a lesson I learned.

[@lambd01d]

Megha Shyam Honestly, the micronutrients were a quicker fix than the drugs in my case AND a long term solution, fingers crossed.

[@veganlifechange]

I suffer from depression. I was eating nothing but fruit and veg. Feeling AMAZING. Then splurged on Pastries, (Pies, Donuts etc) after drinking at a Party and ate a lot of processed foods and my depression was horrible for WEEKS. I think I need to cut out all processed foods forever.

[@LorraFae]

Vegan Life Change stick with it. It works.

[@veganlifechange]

Lorra Fae It really does! I was honestly over everything. Wondered how I could actually kill myself when I've wanted to die. But never actually though of dying. Been eating clean and the depression fog is gone. This rocks :D

[@LorraFae]

Vegan Life Change I'm glad you found the secret :)

[@whoareyou1332]

I turned vegan in March of this year and after a few weeks my four year life-threatening depression lifted and since then I have just got better and better. I take just a third of the meds I used to, and am pretty certain I will be able to dispense with them altogether sometime early in the new year. My psych can't believe how much better I am, but although she agrees that diet plays a part, she simply refuses to believe just how different I feel. She still tells me I should be on medication for the rest of my life. I've had bipolar 1 probably most of my life, but it got a good deal worse when I was diagnosed in 2008 and was started on medication. Over the years the amount of medication I took became scary and I scaled it back with my psych's agreement, preferring to suffer the mood swings than the side effects of the medication. I've had two episodes of psychosis since being on psych meds - and taking large quantities of anti-psychs at the time. So it was clear they weren't working. Whether my psych agrees or not, I fully intend to come off my medication altogether some time in the near future. I take so little now in comparison to what I was taking and to be honest, I forget to take them pretty often and if I was going to get depressed or go manic, it would certainly have happened by now. I added some meat/fish back into my diet for a few days in May just to see what effect it had - it was awful, I started plunging back into depression after just a couple of days and that was enough to tell me that I was right to avoid all animal products. I would never go back to eating anything with a face. If only I could convince my friends to do the same - and all this despite them being amazed at how well I am now. Keep eating a plant-based diet and avoid anything processed and you will continue to improve.

[@honestlyjane7666]

Yes, processed foods cause depression. So, you have to choose if you want to be well or not? Remember, there is a lot of advertising from food and drinks companies that are designed to keep you unwell.

[@recontrolhealth]

Amazing talk and absolutely true from my personal experience. Even with a long history of mental disorders in my family. You would think it wouldn’t work for me since generations were having problems. It absolutely works and as long as I am on my plan of good food and quality grade supplements, I am without issues. Thank you for this information! I’m sharing as much as possible.

[@luminair11]

Yeah.....Sherie.....diets cuturally speaking are often inherited; ergo family illnesses that seem to repeat themselves through generation.....changing the diet goes a long way to changing the so called inherited patterns!

[@j.j.oconnor3442]

We all instinctively know this. Now I, me, I must adopt good eating habits. Thank you Julia Rucklidge. My journey of improved diet of nutrition begins immediately.

[@DrNicoleBeurkens]

This is an extremely important evidence based talk on a topic that is moving the field of mental health forward. As a clinical psychologist and board certified nutrition specialist, I see daily the positive impact that nutrition can have on mental health for children and adults. More than medication and talk therapy is needed to reduce symptoms for many people with these challenges, and nutrition is an accessible research-based option. I often recommend this video to patients and their families.

[@celestehalliwell7689]

Most people in our society don't realize how our food sources have become depleted in nutrients. Too many pesticides deplete the soils of nutrients, all of which is not replaced by fertilizers. Studies have been done on the nutrient content of produce which has been on a decreasing trend for decades! The carrots you buy at most stores are not full of the nutrients they used to be, hence the need for more organic produce. And yes we need to bring in the pharmaceutical companies because they are running the government and not always with wise choices!! CH, BSc Dietetics, PhD Neuroscience.

[@juncowan]

Dr Halliwell, I've been trying to track you down for many months via your old institution and here you are online! I wanted to ask you about your work on EMPowerplus. Is that possible? Jun Cowan, PhD

[@celestehalliwell7689]

Hello Jun, you can reach me at [e-mail] Look forward :-) Celeste

[@juncowan]

Celeste Halliwell Hi Celeste, that email bounced. Please write to [e-mail] and I will reply. Thank you!

[@trailer1210]

Jun Cowan Celeste Halliwell Hello I am from India..I just want to know if there is a way to test how nutritious a vegetable is...i mean to say, the Fruits/Vegetables, is there a way to check how nutritious/adulterated they are! Thank you.

[@juncowan]

Acually, that is a qood question. It would be nice to know whether I am eating nutritious food. I don't think there is any other way other than a chemical analysis, but that would mean you would have to get analysis done on all of the food that you are consuming and that would be expensive I would imagine.

[@wayne4768]

I went on a LCHF diet and cured my depression that I have had since I was a child. I know now that sugar is what did it to me.

[@ilfiore934]

Processed carbohydrates and whole food carbohydrates - are two very different things. By the way.

[@jessicali8594]

"There's no such thing as an essential carbohydrate." Go LCHF because healthy fats satiate and are nutrient dense. Industrially processed refined grain, legume and seed oils have much to answer for.

[@cherylbfrey5936]

GO JULIA!!! I have always felt nutrition was primary in helping to resolve general illness as well as mental health issues. I praise you for spreading this very important message to the world.!!!

[@alainroy8997]

From my experience it plays a major roll in the clarity of thought and concentration, memory also gets better... my body feels so much better when I eat nutritional foods, thanks for your work!

[@JamesSmith-pc6bh]

Since eating keto and then progressing to keto my emotional outlook has never been better in my life. I'm 60 and my entire life I have been a surly, grouchy type person that basically hated most interactions with people. Now I am completely the opposite, I actually enjoy talking to people. I just cannot get over how good I feel, not only emotionally but physically and mentally.

[@blahblahblah747]

happy to hear it

[@happy777abc]

Keto person here! Totally agree👍

[@andressahoese7735]

I suffer from depression since 2006 and am on medication since 2013. Just like she said, the meds and therapy helped me a lot in the beginning, but as time went by, I lost all creativity, libido, and focus because of them. I decided to taper off on my own (after walking the Camino de Santiago) as my doc and therapist couldn’t instruct me (most of them don’t know how to do properly and believe we should take it for the rest of our lives). Fast forward to me being from 225mg of venlafaxine down on my own to 9mg per day. Of course I went back to eat fish, sea food and chicken (was vegetarian for 11 years) plus added weight lifting to my exercise routine. 2021 was a fantastic year although I was always feeling very tired. Extreme fatigue and a relapse in depression with mild episodes of panic attacks made me finally quit all processed food (no dairy, no gluten, no sugar, no alcohol) and I have been on the paleo diet for almost 2 months now. I feel like I am 20 again. FULL OF ENERGY, motivation, creativity and focus. PS: I had found out I was dealing with leaky gut and this affects serotonin levels immensely. I advise anyone dealing with anxiety and depression to search for a naturopath and ask for a stool exam to find out the quality/ status of your gut system. It is all connected!!!

[@Yikes702]

I gave up Coca Cola cold turkey three years ago. I swear it was making me crazy. I've just started to wean myself off fast food. So much sugar. I'm even eating salads without dressing because most of them are just a mash up of sugar and chemicals. I feel a lot better.

[@ald1144]

Congratulations, keep it going! 👍

[@1DarkBlossom]

Great comment. I hope many people read it

[@mustafashaban]

Awesome keep it up!

[@JJ-un2mt]

@@Yikes702 you can make your own salad dressing with olive oil, apple cider vinegar and some spices. Maybe sweeten it up a little bit with a dash of honey. You don't need to go without dressing.

[@healthyLifeWithRenee]

Your message is so true. I was a sugar addict as a child and suffered from depression and obesity. When I turned my problems over to God I found healing and deliverance from letting food ruin my life. I am glad to say I help Christian women understand how nutrition effects our mental health. God bless you and Thank you so much for getting the message out there.

[@FreshStartFitForFaith]

We have a lot in common!!

[@luvluvluvluvcats]

I also found relief in pretending the world was different. I do not believe in god, but it works very well no matter what you choose to believe in. All a trick of the mind....

[@agelessbeyond50withthefatg18]

I so wish social programs that work with people with mental illness would look at nutritional issues. I work in a service with men who are homeless, many have mental health issues, and the food we feed them is terrible. I really want to raise this as an issue with the organisation. Thank you for this Julia

[@greensmoothieparty]

Tryptophan (gut) -> Serotonin (brain) -> Fantastic Mood - this conversion process is optimized in the context of a modest protein diet style. Health is Power!

[@ilfiore934]

I think it's more complex than just "serotonin deficiency". The complexity of difficulties our body experiences, because of unhealthy diet, vaccines, etc - involves thousands of different chemical processes, not just one concerning serotonin to the brain. But sure, that's one of those processes.

[@heavyd777]

I stay away from sugar, white processed products like white bread, soda and junk food in general. Fruits and vegetables and exercise. No alcohol, no tobacco. I can say without a doubt that food is medicine not just for the body but for the mind as well. We eat about 100 times as much sugar as we did 100 years ago. At age 8 I was diagnosed with ADHD and was in the autistic spectrum. Learning disorders, etc... By age 14, after a suicide attempt, I was diagnosed with depression. I was depressed until age 33. Then my diet changed. I worked with a nutritionist and my whole world changed. Eating better made all the difference. I am 60 now, work in IT and in the best mental and physical health of my life. Zero prescriptions.

[@sally8234]

I have been on a whole food plant based diet since 1986. When I backslide and eat a cookie or two, I can feel the difference almost instantly in my brain. Thinking is slower and my ability to concentrate is markedly reduced and I don't feel sharp. Not to mention the sluggishness I feel physically. Why don't people believe that something you put into you body three/four times a day isn't going to affect your body and mind.

[@judyjohnson9610]

Thank you, thank you, thank you. I have been convinced of this for some time. It is our diet that has changed the most over the last 50 years. Along with a rise in mental health issues and aggression

[@more__plz]

I completely changed my life with nutrition. I was on prescriptions for anxiety and depression, I was overweight and tired all the time. I was suicidal. Diet, exercise and a mindful, contemplative lifestyle have changed me, over the last eight years, into a healthy and happy person. I eat a ton of vegetables, all colors, raw and cooked. Fruits, whole grains, legumes… I can feel the energy from these foods. No medication made me feel as good as eating well has. (There is a place for medication to help break dangerous cycles of depression and anxiety but they’re not a long term solution) I encourage everyone to eat well, it doesn’t take long until you crave the goodness and recognize how poisonous the standard American diet can be.

[@robert4you]

Sugar, sugar, sugar... stay away from sugar! This one little thing will improve your health enormously.

[@bonsummers2657]

Stay away from starches, if you like to maintain virility. Fresh fruits are usually great for health.

[@pizzaraccoon8202]

I feel so depressed every time I try to cut it out and it’s frustrating

[@pizzaraccoon8202]

alien pancakes I haven’t tried that yet because I find it harder, but I’ll try it out and I’ll see if it helps :)

[@pizzaraccoon8202]

@@markymarksthirdnipple8305 Ahh okay thanks, I'll google it

[@johnktejik9847]

Yes!

[@Moon2716]

God bless you ! I wish more people like you can help kids who is sufering with mental health

[@psicopedagogacarranz]

Dear Julia, thank you so much for spreading and sharing your research. God bless you! I'll tell all my people about your research. I wish you the best!

[@Flockfitness101]

Just posted a new video on my experience being Vegan , wether your for or against its an interesting video and it’s worth a watch. If you enjoy make sure to subscribe and like it means a lot !!!

[@taranaki2668]

Totally unnecessary to flag this video TED. Dr Julia's research is peer reviewed and robust. I took her advice, changed my diet to plant based (after my own research) got some broad-spectrum micronutrients started taking them under supervision of a health professional. THIS VIDEO CHANGED MY WHOLE LIFE! I have suffered with Bipolar 1 and PMDD for over 20 years and I have tried every psychiatric drug there is to manage my depression/ anxiety and mania. For the first time in many YEARS I am stable and my depression is lifted with NO SIDE EFFECTS. Why keep this information from people? Is Big Pharmacy threatened? Of course? Do you need help transitioning to broad-spectrum micronutrients? Yes, of course. Dr Julia's presentation is as important as the discovery of lithium for stabilising mood some 50 years ago in Australia. Listen to her! I am furious that her work be undermined by a Ted gag. Dr Charles Popper Harvard Psychiatrist uses micronutrient therapy in his practice. Is it because she is a woman that you try and pull down her life's work? I am totally miffed.

[@garysimone4977]

Tara Naki so true ?!

[@leessaaaw]

With all u say I agree ☝🏻… and let me congratulate you for being so brave and put a huge effort on changing for yourself. It is one of the hardest things to do 👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻🤍

[@jannaprofile9525]

I was wondering what kind of health professional helped you with the micronutrients. I don't know who to go to? But I know I need help

[@blueskyalldayeveryday]

@@jannaprofile9525 I asked the same thing, just seen your comment now. I’d love some advice too on where to go/who to see to try this out.

[@KristinaRaqs]

@@blueskyalldayeveryday you’ll need a functional medicine physician.

[@emmystapleton6586]

WHY IS THIS NOT TALKED ABOUT!!?!?!?? AMAZING!!!!

[@EDWARDmalinky]

$$$$$$$$$$

[@normaalsina6214]

I just found this video and I’m living proof that this is so true!!! No Doctor told me I just found out looking to gain my physical well-being I found my mental health!!!

[@ankavoskuilen1725]

The problem with depression is that it takes too much energy, which you don't have as a result of the depression, to prepare a healthy meal. In any case, that always is my problem.

[@joysacks3314]

if we were living communal lifestyles where we took care of each other and shared roles this wouldn’t be a problem but the western diet is perfect for someone who lives completely on and for themselves

[@ankavoskuilen1725]

@@joysacks3314 Yes, and that is a sad thing.

[@M_K_M_K_M_K]

Anka Voskuilen Hee Anka, ook Nederlands? :-). I understand that struggle. I have been dealing with anxiety almost all my life, had short bouts of depression only a few times in life (I think). I remember clearly how I had no perseverance - at all - during my last depression. Getting dressed before my boyfriend would come home took more from me than I had in me. Getting groceries and cooking meals, planning it out.... I dont know if and how someone would do that. I hope you are doing well, and that you have people around you you can ask for help, and that you will!

[@ankavoskuilen1725]

@@M_K_M_K_M_K Indeed I am dutch 😊 Fortunately now I do very well and I hope you do too. I recognise what you are saying. With me it got better with good therapy and aging. Who knew aging would have that effect????? 😳 I didn't. So there is hope! But still I have to be aware of the signs that it can go wrong.

[@jaydeo7850]

What I do, is get extremely caffeinated. Then cook.

[@ddani-ey6dx]

SSRI anti-depressants are a known trigger for manic episodes of bipolar disorder in people that already have the underlying illness, I think this is an important consideration alongside the stat regarding anti-depressants increasing cases of bipolar disorder x3. It’s often mis-diagnosed as depression initially in younger people to begin with, which when paired with SSRI’s as is often the case, can just bring about episodes earlier than they might have otherwise. Meds are vital, just not the wrong ones at the wrong time with a misdiagnosed patient…

[@benjaminwhite8145]

I took an ssri for awhile. It seemed to help some? But I drive a lot for work, and it made me exhausted constantly. Had to pull off the road and stop multiple times a week. Stopped two months ago, hasnt happened since.

[@CEOofCTOs]

I knew a girl that was on SSRIs and I talked to her about them after I did my research. Outcome: she refuted everything I said, continued her prolonged SSRI treatment, and ghosted me. Mental illness is no joke guys, proceed with caution! Especially the pretty ones!

[@shawnmclean7932]

Why don't they EVER report what drugs the mass shooters are on? I bet it's nearly 100%.

[@CEOofCTOs]

@@shawnmclean7932 I think they’re natural and they’re acting on radicalism by yours truly, the CIA

[@mariusd7803]

A bit rude playing table tennis when there’s such an amazing Ted talk taking place

[@elic1755]

There is a course in EDX called Mental Health and Nutrition also by Julia Rucklidge if you need more information. Great stuff!

[@poofypeach]

Thanks for that! Found it through Google and it is all free!

[@spotserafin]

Thanks!

[@SoCoCommunity101]

Found it! Loving it already. Thank you 😊

[@debir4111]

I’m looking now! Excited even more to read it was free!

[@EmeraldMaiden]

I could probably list at least 20 things that contribute to my depression, but this is a major player. Julia's talking about nutrition far and beyond just diet, but I find the effects of diet are very noticeable in myself. How much better I feel after choosing a healthy food rather than junk. My other major player is sunlight... vitamin D deficiency is a bitch when it comes to depression.

[@cmdrefstathiusplacidus9003]

+Harley I think I can relate. Living in the Valley in OR can be really dark for many, many, many...... many... days.

[@katemorsley2480]

+Harley Have you come across USANA Health Sciences...highest quality supplementation..check my site..www.katemorsley.usana.com

[@juliarucklidge3644]

+Kate Morsley as far as I am aware, USANA products have not been studied for the treatment of mental illness. We cannot therefore assume that they would produce the same effects as the products that have been studied for mental illness. Please email (find it on the Canterbury website) me if you wish to know more about the research that has been conducted around the world. If you do know of research on USANA I would be keen to hear about it.

[@msbabitz]

+Harley you can check out www.naturalmoodremedy.com for more information about the micronutrients in this study which used EMPowerplus Q96. I'd be happy to get you some to try. There are many people who have found much calm, clarity and coping from this supplement. Including myself.

[@juliarucklidge3644]

+Peggy Matheson I do need to clarify for viewers that the studies cited in my talk used different nutrient products. They were not all about the same product. Please email me (find via University of Canterbury website) for full list of products that have been researched.

[@karlamohtashemi2417]

I have included superfoods with adaptogens in my daily routine for 10 years now, and the dramatic difference in my own mood, my ability to handle stress, and everything has changed. I wish I could get your information to more doctors.

[@zer0tzer0]

A little exercise goes a long way as well.

[@patricksarama4963]

Christina Reynolds that’s not true at all

[@patricksarama4963]

Christina Reynolds I have very high iq and I love exercise

[@patricksarama4963]

Christina Reynolds my iq is 141 and was measured by a doctor/ psychologist 3 years ago. Happy?

[@kotenoklelu3471]

I started exercises when I quit sugar and restricted internet. Then I had energy for it.

[@damiettes7140]

@@patricksarama4963 an iq test is a warped way of measuring intelligence because it’s culturally specific and geared to the upper middle class. It is a flawed test.

[@MartinIsRunning]

How is this seven years old. This needs to go viral like, yesterday.

[@heatherwhited4888]

Because her science is bad. This video comes with a warning and isn't even endorsed by TED any more.

[@glowingowl221]

I’m a health professional and I tell this to my clients all the time , they look at me with rage and disgust Because they would rather take a pill or be miserable than change their diets .

[@WrapCityGifts]

I noticed that if a health care worker told me to eat healthier, I wouldn’t but if I was told specifically what to eat and why, I would. But also, I’m not a pill popper so I’d naturally go the diet route. Hey, at least you tried and at least you made an effort. Thanks for caring.

[@kotenoklelu3471]

It's because healthcare professionals never say what to eat instead. You have impression that you should starve to be healthy. And some "experts" give dangerous advices like zero salt diet (people get in reanimation on zero salt diet)

[@amyw3472]

I don’t work in the medical field but I recently told my coworker he could try an anti-inflammatory diet for his arthritis and his exact words were, “I would rather die.” Can’t help those that don’t want to be helped. 🤷🏻‍♀️

[@melvang353]

I’ve seen this and people get crazy when u ask them to give up their Diet Coke or stop eating bread. It sad but they will not stop

[@melvang353]

@@amyw3472 yep that’s their attitude but what if u don’t die but suffer for a long time ?

[@patriciabailhaodasilva5928]

I have depression and am taking medication for it, BUT I truly started to feel much better after I switch to a plant base diet. Now I am in the process to take the medication away 😁

[@NextLevelMeNow]

That's amazing! Way to go!

[@iwnunn7999]

How's it going for u so far? I hope well

[@mkerby6306]

Way to go... off... haha... the RIGHT WAY! Keep the Good Going! I know you will do better every day you redirect!

[@RawVeganGinger]

Patricia Bailhao da Silva Beautiful!!! A plant based whole food RAW VEGAN diet completely reversed my clinical depression. We need more FRESH WHOLE FOOD 🙌🏼🍎🍐🍊🍋🍌🍉🍇🍓🍈🍒🍑🥭🍍🥝🍅🥬🥒🌶🥕🌱

[@marciaosullivan3200]

@@RawVeganGinger it's not the fact you went vegan but we were originally plant based with some meat

[@RobertPendergrastMD]

Passionately delivered and thoughtful presentation by Dr. Rucklidge. I have read the original manuscripts of many of the studies she referenced. This is significant research that needs to be expanded, with implications for public health for children and adults. It's an area not yet fully understood, but should not be dismissed by those for whom it is outside the paradigm of conventional current medical prescribing. I am curious why TED chose to "flag" this presentation... odd.

[@LorenPanno]

Because she said the number of people with mental health problems is increasing due to more people eating poor nutrition. That's made up to support her own stance.

[@aronvandermeyden917]

@@LorenPanno How is that “made up”? She cited studies that support that thesis. When nutrition was improved people get better. When the nutrition support is removed they slide back a bit. Of course there could be other causes of the increase in mental health issues but that increase is also from data.

[@aronvandermeyden917]

@Shannon Stewart How extreme is the conclusion that what we put in our mouths affects our brain? Are all phsychiatrics administered by injection?

[@aronvandermeyden917]

But more importantly, a drug is cleared rather quickly by the liver, while the gut microbiota that our food cultures persists and if imbalanced will produce endotoxins that will affect one's brain for as long as that culture is fed. Animals and vegetables are an order of magnitude more powerful than minerals. Acorn vs stone slab - over time the acorn wins every time.

[@DJEmpress333]

@Shannon Stewart How is improving the nutrition you put in your body an "extreme conclusion?" It is basic commonsense.

[@jewsusjewtube1880]

Bless this woman who tells the truth!

[@joancuster302]

From many years of experience I can say this is true good nutrition can change your life

[@juliaallman1555]

Great job, Julia! A must needed shift for successful mental health. Bravo!

[@atulpatel2850]

You are my hero! This is what I preach. Thank you.

[@Flockfitness101]

Just posted a new video on my experience being Vegan , wether your for or against its an interesting video and it’s worth a watch. If you enjoy make sure to subscribe and like it means a lot !!!

[@BrianB1963]

WHAT A EXCELLENT VIDEO I 100% AGREE! THANK YOU!

[@johnnyc8775]

Really worth listening to. This is an excellent presentation on the effects and benefits of nutrition on your mental health. Thank you Julia.

[@crashthesystem5150]

My husband and I both focused heavily on proper nutrition in order to battle serious depression, anxiety, and psychotic symptoms of protracted medication withdrawal after 10 years of psychiatric medications making things worse for us, with constant hospitalizations compounding our PTSD. We have been living very well off medications and have completely avoided the hospital for 7 years now because of nutrition and community. There is more conclusive evidence about the negative effects of nutritional deficiencies than there is about the overall benefit of psychiatric medications. It is proven that long-term use of psych meds contributes to serious physical health problems and in turn contributes to the 15 to 30 year mortality gap between people diagnosed with mental illness and the general population. It seems to be common sense that good food equals good health; and those who live in poverty/food deserts, thus having to stretch their meals and make do with less nutrition, are more often diagnosed with mental health conditions. It also seems to be common sense that high sugar intake (Western diet) can greatly decrease the ability to focus and increase other symptoms of mental illness. I admire Rucklidge's solid scientific work, and I hope TEDx comes to its senses.

[@Catlily5]

I had an extremely well nourished body. My parents were health food fanatics. I still ended up in the state hospital at age 15. I do believe in eating healthy. It is important to both physical and mental health. Try diet first but it might not be enough. It is not enough for me.

[@ToroidalVortexLove]

Wow. It seems so obvious but the food in hospitals is so shit.

[@yomarisol]

+ToroidalVortexLove My niece of 3 years old actually is in a hospital in hannover germany with face swallow for after surgery for chronic sinusitis and after 1 week she recieved for dinner chocolate with milk and cookies of course all proccesad food full sugar surprised to me!!... then my sis carry her food with vegetales and fruits fallowing advice of Dr Joel Fuhrman

[@anjumshahzad8612]

I feel like Pablo

[@EvolverWellness]

yeah, if you want to be well, avoid hospitals. The rate of iatrogenic-death (doctor caused) alone is high enough to keep me far away from them.

[@LifeBetweenTheDash]

Agreed! I couldn't believe what they passed off as a heart healthy diet. I wasn't even there for anything related to the heart but that was the only "healthy" menu they had. Uggh! I had my friend bring me all my food in.

[@rozlynrobinson2308]

Doctors kept me sick foe years and made me worse. No more mess and I am healthier than ever

[@leesher1845]

Very interesting and makes a lot of sense. Would’ve been tremendously helpful had she defined more specifically what micro nutrients are since some of us don’t know.

[@scvnlolo2813]

mary jane

[@emmar-h2025]

The Wellness Way's entire approach to health is everything this woman explains and more! Reducing inflammation, supplementing when needed, healing the whole body through simple life changes. They healed my irritable bowel syndrome, headaches & early onset arthritis within 2 WEEKS of following their dietary guide. They find the root cause for health problems and heal them at the source instead of masking the symptoms with medications like every other doctor has done to me. Check them out!

[@rdw952]

The problem is each case may require something different, and using supplements should be with close supervision by a trained individual. The simple answer for anyone is eating food that promotes health, not foods that promote disease. Plenty of helpful information may be found on what a healthy diet is by any who search for it.

[@EvolvingPotentialCo]

well most common would be magnesium and potassium for the minerals and micronutrients would be vit d, fish oil, or a basic multi vitamin. the doses would depend on the needs and if blood work was being done they can be pretty precise with meeting those needs. There are supplements for all of this if you do a little digging.

[@sharkboyjuan]

Look it up😏

[@nancyinthegarden3160]

Thank you for addressing this VERY IMPORTANT cause of mental instability

[@debbieallen7160]

Thank you for this amazing talk. It tells us what we already know, but seldom hear from doctors and scientists. Keep up the good work!

[@debbieallen7160]

It's sad that TED would cave to pressure from industries that value profit over human health and put a disclaimer on this groundbreaking work, especially when we see all around us examples of this exact approach preventing and reversing all of the chronic diseases we in developed nations are increasingly suffering and dying from.

[@sharonaman1466]

Thank you for your informative talk. Excellent! My son had ADHD & wanted junk food like his friends, I cooked healthy meals & had fruit & veggies in the home. He graduated HS with a B average & went to a community college & graduated with a B+ average.

[@Turtlesbekool]

That’s amazing!!! I’m glad he’s doing better :) that probably saved his life and you don’t even know it

[@RPlaza-ht9gp]

I doubt that had to do with what he ate seeing as ADHD doesn't determine intellectual capabilities. I am also Neurodivergent and graduated college with high honors. It probably had more to do with the effort you put in as a parent and your structure.

[@freeweezybitches]

Plaza how many stimulants were you on during college for those high honors?

[@royalindication]

@@RPlaza-ht9gp not everyone with ADHD is able to graduate with high honors. I almost failed high school and university kicked me in the head.. there's various levels of ADHD and symptomatology, just because you can doesn't mean everyone is like you. And it has nothing to do with the parent either. It's not their fault. It's genetics.

[@royalindication]

@@freeweezybitches what's wrong with stimulants?

[@SageRosemaryTime]

brilliant. spoken in 2014 and it gets more validated every year. Ahead of her time. LIKED !

[@myown2101]

It has been validated and scientifically backed for many many decades.... it also has been wilfully ignored for many decades.

[@SageRosemaryTime]

@@myown2101 So TRUE . well said . decades of Pharmaceutical profiteering .

[@aether-elephant]

Thank God you've said it.. been looking into this for a few years

[@missanthrope2158]

Been vegan for 2 years and feel great but will feel even better once I go entirely raw. Liferegenerator is an incredible channel. He is extremely intelligent and inspiring.

[@crystaltemple4471]

I'm glad this was not an advertisement for a specific pill, but would love to learn more about which vitamins and which amounts. This was a great presentation.

[@BowenUSA]

She teaches the online course at EDX called mental health and nutrition.

[@Whoever68]

When our child suffered depression a few years ago. He was not eating fruits and vegetables. His diet was highly processed. Despite our home prepared meals offering lots of fruits and vegetables, he would not eat them and would leave them on the plate. As a last resort I bought vitamins and probiotics for him. After a month or two of taking the store bought supplements, his depression improved. Now he is eating fruits and vegetables as part of is daily diet. He also takes vitamins once or twice a week, particularly when he has been eating a diet high in processed foods like a lot of teenagers will do. I’m so glad we did not have to resort to prescription drugs to treat his depression. At the time his treating psychologist, we felt, was blaming us for his depression.

[@quiversender7177]

Never trust a shrink

[@quiversender7177]

It's not just vitamins but minerals like iron copper zinc magnesium shelled hemp seeds are incredibly nutritios

[@Whoever68]

@@quiversender7177 yes I agree. I started giving him vitamin Bs and probiotics. He had not been eating greens.Then I started combining a multi vitamin which included all the minerals and fish oil. The vitamin Bs improved his mood enormously and I could then introduce the other minerals. In saying this, if he was at the point that he needed prescription medication so as to not harm himself, I would have had to have him take them. Thankfully he was not at that point and the vitamins worked for him. I knew the gut and the brain are linked and his diet was very poor in vitamins and minerals as typical teen boys do consume more junk food over healthy foods.

[@quiversender7177]

@@Whoever68 that's awesome .the stomach and heart are niegbors. If they are happy it's a good start

[@8656737s]

My son has a ADD we weighed the pros and cons of medication. Ultimately he decided he wanted to try it. I can tell you it changed his life! He got into an early college program finished high school with a 2-year College degree and now he's going to a 4-year College ❤ I had a few people tell me I was a bad mother for putting him on medication. In the end I think we made the right choice hopefully in the long-term I feel the same way.

[@Hayley-qg6sm]

Fs I love amphetamines too

[@PlatypusProdigy]

As much as nutrition helps support my mental health it isn’t enough to fix my severe ADHD. I wasn’t diagnosed until adulthood and finally everything I struggled with during my childhood made sense. Suddenly so many things have just stopped being such a struggle. Some people in my life have been very judgemental but they don’t walk in my shoes, nor do they walk in your son’s. There is no one thing that will magically help everyone and I think it’s important to stay open minded and view all your options, medication included.

[@8656737s]

@@PlatypusProdigy I'm so happy you finally got some answers it's a weight off your shoulders. I also have ADHD and dyslexia Makes life difficult. I wish you only the best in life ❤

[@Pesso121]

he should try a supplement that'll give him just as much energy than an amphetamine like say, a very strong b-complex, some high quality omega 3 (expensive), & a very good probiotic that's been proven clinically to reduce anxiety(also a bit expensive). The difference is that he won't exhibit the very same side effect seen when he consumes the former(amphetamines).

[@Petra44YT]

I think medication is not always a bad choice, but I also think that nutrition is important. Why not combine the two?

[@beccadawn23]

My son has ADHD. I’m glad they are finally finding evidence that explains what many parents have experienced.

[@paulpanckhurst3048]

So... I wrote to TED Support eight days ago, asking why this talk was flagged. The response I got was this: "Thanks for getting in touch! We have received your message and will respond as soon as possible, usually within 48 hours." Since then, nothing.

[@nadinesharabi4082]

It’s prob because this woman’s suggesting that meds are less effective than nutrition (which I believe in SOME mental health senarios)- but her findings are still results of factual evidence. Those examples she used of people not believing people after manyyyy years are just examples of the good outcomes. We wouldn’t want mass numbers of people getting of necessary meds that actually help them...

[@kateboo4013]

Wow...

[@ninonperretgentil235]

Thanks in reporting this Paul. So no need for me to do so.... My utter confidence in Ted talks has now plummeted.

[@hoangbui3128]

messages to all. Begging the people for support. Advising doctor to change their ways. Doing the right thing.

[@iansilver4853]

Nice to see one of my old classmates make a positive difference in the world!

[@juliarucklidge3644]

Hi Ian! How are doing? Nice to see this video making it back to TFSers.

[@MrCynthiarosalinda]

I totally agree with you, help on mental disorder and regular exercise will help too.

[@lambd01d]

Good talk, and I can testify to the the benefits of micronutrients on mental health, but she didn't say which nutrients were beneficial apart from omega 3-rich fish oil. I've been taking 5-HTP, magnesium, zinc and vitamin C and B6 supplements and my mental health has greatly improved. Antidepressants helped my depression, but the side effects were so horrible that I discontinued the treatment. I never felt normal once on antidepressants. I always felt wired and on the verge of mania, but once I started taking the magnesium and zinc I felt normal for the first time in years with no side effects whatsoever. We don't become mentally ill through lack of medication. All it does is try and make up for the lack/excess of neurotransmitters by interfering with the normal functioning of the brain and has knock on effects elsewhere, but nutrients allow your brain to do what it's supposed to do in the first place.

[@juliarucklidge3644]

lambd01d I am an independent researcher of the nutrient products that I study and therefore it is important that I don't advocate for any specific product. Also, I cited a number of different studies and different researchers use different combinations of nutrients. I know, it is complicated. However, if you email me (go to: www.psyc.canterbury.ac.nz/people/rucklidge.shtml to find my email), I will send a list of products that I am aware of that have been studied to treat mental illness as well as information on the products that I have studied. It is important though to understand that I do not receive any money from the companies and my research is done independently. Thanks for your interest in my work. Kind regards Julia

[@faza553]

lambd01d Agree. Genetics = loaded gun; Environment pulls the trigger. Environment = contribution of early childhood trauma, physical, emotional, spiritual, air, water food/nutrition, total load of synthetic chemicals from personal care products etc and I feel exposure to non-native EMF is now a significant factor in many conditions. Individual variability in metabolism must be taken into account.

[@amylindberg123]

Julia Rucklidge Loved ur nutrition TED TALK. Pls send list of products that have best impact on health/mental illness .

[@klairef983]

Thanks for info....Were you taking these supplements together with your medications....or did you stop the medications completely....I have a friend who takes 5htp together with his medication...but he sounds more hyper....I told him the 5htp does not go well together with medications but he does not get this...He says it helps him sleep...What is your take on this....Lamb and Julia :)

[@ilfiore934]

I think everyone has different needs in this case, someone has zinc deficiency, others copper deficiency, potassium, sodium, etc (or few deficiencies at once). Also mercury and aluminium poisoning, most likely from vaccines, are probably common, and have grave negative effects on physical and mental health. Hair mineral analysis lab test can help figure out a lot of it (what minerals your body is lacking, and what toxic metals are hindering your body's regeneration capabilities)

[@rebuildthepsyche9114]

I am inspired by this post!! Nutrition has a big role to play in mental health.