The interplay between nutrition, mental health, and growth outcomes is a rapidly evolving area of research. Emerging evidence suggests that adequate nutrition is critical not only for physical growth but also for mental well-being. Vulnerable populations are especially at risk for nutritional deficiencies, which can lead to adverse mental health outcomes and impede normal growth and development. Despite increasing awareness, a gap remains in the comprehensive understanding of how nutritional factors intersect with mental health and growth trajectories across different socioeconomic and cultural settings.

This Research Topic aims to deepen the understanding of how nutritional status influences mental health and growth among vulnerable populations. Specifically, it seeks to highlight the impact of dietary diversity, nutrient intake, food insecurity, and targeted nutritional interventions on psychological well-being and growth outcomes. Critical questions include identifying the pathways through which malnutrition affects mental health and growth, and understanding the role of socio-economic and environmental factors. By exploring these interconnections, the research seeks to inform strategies that address the unique needs of at-risk groups. Further, it also provides evidence to inform integrated policies and context-appropriate strategies to break the cycle of malnutrition, poor mental health, and suboptimal development.

To gather further insights into this complex relationship, we welcome articles addressing, but not limited to, the following themes:

o Modelling nutrition, mental health, and growth interactions through a biopsychosocial lens.

o Definitions, challenges, and methodologies for studying vulnerable populations.

o Empirical studies on dietary diversity and psychological outcomes in refugee children.

o The impact of food insecurity on adolescent mental health in low-income communities.

o Analyses of nutrition-based interventions aimed at cognitive and emotional development.

o Investigations of malnutrition’s pathways leading to stunted growth and cognitive deficits.

o Longitudinal and case study analyses within at-risk groups.

o Policies and programs integrating nutrition and mental health to improve outcomes.

This Research Topic is open to original research articles, review articles, case studies, and policy analyses. We encourage contributors to bring forward innovative methodologies and interdisciplinary perspectives to advance the field.

Are you interested in contributing a manuscript to this Research Topic?

Nutritional Factors, Mental Health, and Growth Outcomes: An Epidemiological Investigation Among Vulnerable Populations