Fueling Mental Health Through Nutrition: How EAPs Support Holistic Wellness During National Nutrition Month

Did you know that 1 in 5 U.S. adults experience mental illness each year, leading to 12 billion lost workdays annually? The impact on workplace productivity, absenteeism, and healthcare costs is staggering. However, there’s a powerful, often-overlooked tool for supporting mental well-being: NUTRITION!  

March is National Nutrition Month—an ideal time to highlight the powerful connection between nutrition and mental health. The foods we choose don’t just fuel our bodies; they also play a crucial role in mood, focus, and overall well-being.

The Gut-Brain Connection: Food as Fuel for Mental Wellness

Scientific research has increasingly highlighted the connection between the gut and the brain, showing that nutrient-dense foods can play a key role in mood, focus, and stress management. Simple dietary shifts—such as incorporating omega-3 fatty acids, fiber-rich foods, and essential vitamins—can enhance cognitive function, stabilize emotions, and reduce symptoms of anxiety and depression.

“The foods we eat can either fuel our mental health or drain it. By prioritizing nutrient-dense choices, employees can boost their resilience, enhance focus, and improve their overall well-being—leading to a happier, more productive workplace”, says Kelly Springer, RD, MS, CDN, CEO and Founder of Kelly’s Choice

How National EAP and Kelly’s Choice Empower Employees

Committed to a holistic approach to employee wellness. National EAP is collaborating with Kelly’s Choice to enhance our wellness offerings, now including referrals to 1:1 medical nutrition counseling virtually. If your employee assistance program is provided by National EAP, and you’d like to request a nutrition counseling referral, contact National EAP at info@nationaleap.com.

Kelly’s Choice also offers National EAP members access to:
– Personalized Virtual Nutrition Counseling – Get tailored guidance on making sustainable dietary and lifestyle changes with one-on-one nutrition counseling from a Kelly’s Choice dietitian.
– Wellness Resources – Access to healthy recipes, helpful handouts, and strategies to integrate mindful eating into daily life.

A Workplace Culture That Thrives

When employees feel supported in both their mental and physical health, workplace morale, engagement, and productivity naturally improve. National EAP is making it easier than ever for organizations to integrate practical, science-backed nutrition strategies into their wellness programs.

Let’s make mental health a priority—one healthy bite at a time.
Contact us at info@nationaleap.com to start your path to a healthier lifestyle.

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