Lifestyle Psychiatry Presents: The Protein Prescription: Powering Longevity with Science-View Presentation

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The American Psychiatric Association's Lifestyle Psychiatry Caucus hosted a webinar focused on the importance of plant-based nutrition and protein for longevity, mental health, and specific populations including older adults and pregnant women. Dr. Melissa Sunderman emphasized the benefits of a whole food plant-based diet—rich in minimally processed vegetables, fruits, whole grains, and legumes—and its role in reducing chronic diseases, inflammation, and improving gut microbiome health, which in turn positively influences brain function and mood. She explained key nutrients like folate, magnesium, omega-3 fatty acids, and polyphenols, which support mental well-being and physical health.<br /><br />Dr. Andrew Mock discussed protein needs, challenging common misconceptions that protein is mainly from animal sources. He highlighted that protein requirements vary widely, with many adults benefiting from 1.2 to 1.6 grams of protein per kilogram of body weight daily, especially active individuals. He stressed that plant-based proteins, when varied, adequately meet amino acid needs, and protein supplements can be convenient tools for adherence.<br /><br />Dr. John McHugh addressed protein in women's reproductive health, noting increased needs during pregnancy and lactation, benefits of plant-based proteins for fertility and reduced risks associated with meat and dairy consumption. He emphasized the importance of fiber and micronutrients like iron and B12 supplementation in plant-based diets during pregnancy.<br /><br />Dr. Melissa Bernstein focused on older adults, highlighting age-related muscle loss, anabolic resistance, and increased protein needs (potentially up to 1.5-2 grams/kg). She advocated for plant-based protein sources to improve overall dietary quality and reduce chronic disease risk, also addressing cost and nutrient concerns.<br /><br />The panel concluded that small, sustainable dietary shifts towards plant-forward patterns support mental and physical health, with personalized approaches considering preferences and conditions. Questions addressed topics like casein protein, ketogenic diets, and food choices for elderly populations. Overall, nutrition was underscored as a powerful, underutilized tool in lifestyle psychiatry.

Keywords

plant-based nutrition

protein requirements

mental health

longevity

older adults nutrition

pregnancy diet

whole food plant-based diet

chronic disease prevention

gut microbiome

lifestyle psychiatry