Diet is an important factor in physical and mental health. Studies have shown that a healthy diet can help prevent or even treat a number of diseases, including mental and neurological diseases. In addition, a balanced diet can improve mood and mitigate the effects of chronic stress, factors that are important for preventing diseases such as depression and anxiety. In this sense, understanding the impacts of diets rich in carbohydrates or lipids on behaviors related to chronic stress can contribute to a better quality of life for individuals.
The project aims to understand how diet can contribute to vulnerability to chronic stress and which molecular mechanisms are involved in this process. By elucidating some molecular mechanisms, it is possible to understand how neuroprotective strategies can be effective in managing conditions associated with stress. Thus, the research project aims to understand the neurochemical and morphological changes that can predict how diets rich in carbohydrates (fructose or glucose) or lipids can generate greater behavioral vulnerability to chronic stress. Pharmacological strategies (classical antidepressants and antihypoglycemic agents) will be verified in the prevention and treatment of anhedonic and depressive behaviors.