Food and Mood: What's the connection?

FOOD AND MOOD: WHAT'S THE CONNECTION?

While diet has been long been known to be an leading factor in many aspects of physical wellness, such as risk of heart disease, diabetes and many types of cancer, it may also be equally as important to mental health. There is accumulating evidence to support the notion that making changes in how we eat may help people decrease their risk of mental health issues like depression, anxiety and dementia. This session will explore some of the recent research and recommendations on how simple changes in can help help supports overall wellness. 

Learning Outcomes:

  • What current research shows is the association between diet quality and the risk of mental health issues
  • Nutrients linked with healthy brains and improved mental health outcomes
  • How to manage food cravings and moderate intake of “comfort foods” 

Key Themes:

  • Health & Wellness
  • Mental Health

Presenters:

Sandra Ace is a Registered Dietitian with more than 37years of experience in acute care, long term care, community health and public health settings. She has worked at Health Services since 2005, where she provides nutrition counselling to University of Waterloo students and supports campus-wide nutrition-related education and  health promotion initiatives. She strives to empower students with the knowledge and skills to make sustainable lifestyle changes that support physical health, mental wellness and academic success. Sandra is a member of the College of Dietitians of Ontario and Dietitians of Canada and has a particular interest in the area of Eating Disorders.


Sessions:

April 5, 2018
2:30 - 3:30 p.m.
STC 0060

April 6, 2018
9 - 10 a.m.
STC 0060

Accessibility

The University of Waterloo is committed to providing barrier-free access and equal opportunities to all individuals with disabilities. We strive to create an inclusive environment that is welcoming and supportive of everyone, regardless of their abilities. OHD encourages a scent-free environment in our in-person learning and development events.

If you require any additional accommodations or have any questions about accessibility, please connect with our OHD Events and Programs Coordinator, Krystal Mittler at krystal.mittler@uwaterloo.ca. We are committed to ensuring everyone has an equal opportunity to participate in our learning and development event. Please note that certain accommodations may require time to arrange.


The University of Waterloo acknowledges that much of our work takes place on the traditional territory of the Neutral, Anishinaabeg and Haudenosaunee peoples. Our main campus is situated on the Haldimand Tract, the land granted to the Six Nations that includes six miles on each side of the Grand River. Our active work toward reconciliation takes place across our campuses through research, learning, teaching, and community building, and is co-ordinated within our Office of Indigenous Relations