Nutrient deficiencies and the mind: The mental health consequences of malnutrition

Malnutrition is a global public health crisis affecting millions of people, impacting not only physical health but also mental well-being. According to the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), about 828 million people were undernourished in 2021, a number that has grown due to rising food and economic crises (FAO, 2022). In the United States, about 13.5% of the population faces food insecurity, including 7.2 million children who lack regular access to nutritious foods (USDA, 2024).