Meeting abstract

https://doi.org/10.24869/spsih.2026.246

Implementation of a Nutritional Psychiatry Program at Vrapče University Psychiatric Hospital

Slađana Štrkalj Ivezić ; University Psychiatric Hospital Vrapče, Bolnička cesta 32, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia *
Andrea Jambrošić Sakoman ; University Psychiatric Hospital Vrapče, Bolnička cesta 32, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia
Dina Bošnjak Kuharić ; University Psychiatric Hospital Vrapče, Bolnička cesta 32, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia
Martina Hrlić Fremec ; University Psychiatric Hospital Vrapče, Bolnička cesta 32, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia
Adis Grozdanić ; University Psychiatric Hospital Vrapče, Bolnička cesta 32, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia
Marijana Bavčević ; University Psychiatric Hospital Vrapče, Bolnička cesta 32, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia

* Corresponding author.

Abstract

Introduction: People with mental illness often
have unhealthy eating habits, which, together
with the use of psychopharmacotherapy, can
further increase disease burden and the risk of
developing metabolic complications. Nutritional
psychiatry is an interdisciplinary field that examines
the relationship between diet, specific nutrients,
and mental health, with an emphasis on
their impact on mood, cognitive functions, and
overall psychological functioning. Diet is considered
a potentially modifiable risk factor and part
of the therapeutic approach in the prevention and
treatment of mental disorders. Aims of the study:
To present the introduction of a nutritional psychiatry
program in several phases into inpatient
and outpatient psychiatric treatment programs
at the University Psychiatric Hospital Vrapče.
Materials and methods: Literature review, development
of educational materials, organization of focus groups, and education of professionals
and people with mental health problems. Results:
Feedback showed that patients and professionals
are interested in including these contents in
treatment and prevention programs and that
they regard them as added value. Conclusion:
Proper and balanced nutrition is considered one
of the important factors in the prevention of
mental disorders, and contemporary scientific
research increasingly highlights its role as part of
a complementary approach to the prevention and
treatment of mental health disorders. Educating
patients and professionals about the importance
of proper nutrition is an important contribution
to preserving mental health, improving quality of
life, and reducing the overall disease burden.

Keywords

nutritional psychiatry; eating habits; mental health

Hrčak ID:

352908

URI

https://hrcak.srce.hr/352908

Publication date:

15.6.2026.

Article data in other languages: croatian

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