BEETHOVEN

Mental health (MH) is a pressing public health challenge in Europe, with growing evidence pointing to diet as a key modifiable factor in its prevention and management. The NUTRI-MIND project aims to identify and validate dietary strategies that support mental well-being by targeting inflammation, microbiome-host interactions, and the gut-brain axis. By integrating clinical studies, preclinical models, omics-based biomarker discovery, environmental factors and socio-economic analysis, the project will generate a robust, multi-dimensional evidence base linking nutrition to MH across life stages and diverse population groups. In its initial phase, NUTRI-MIND will synthesise existing research, dietary guidelines, and scientific literature to map key food groups, macro- and micronutrients, and dietary patterns associated with MH outcomes. This mapping will also clarify their interactions with the gut microbiome and host metabolism. These findings will guide subsequent work packages focused on addressing knowledge gaps, ranging from biological mechanisms and intervention efficacy to socio-economic drivers and the future resilience of "brain-food" production systems. Mechanistic studies and clinical trials will assess the effectiveness of targeted dietary interventions in individuals with mild-to-moderate MH symptoms. Machine learning and metabolomic tools will support the development of personalised diagnostics and dietary recommendations. Citizen science, surveys, and co-creation workshops will ensure that socio-economic, cultural, and gender-specific factors are fully addressed. The project’s final outputs will include actionable, evidence-based nutritional guidelines and policy recommendations that align with EU priorities under the Farm2Fork strategy, the “Healthier Together” initiative, and the Food 2030 pathway on sustainable, healthy diets.