Exploring the Therapeutic Potential of Ilāj-Bil-Ghizā (Dietotherapy) in Depression: A Systematic Review

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nThis is an unedited manuscript accepted for publication and provided as an Article in Press for early access at the author’s request. The article will undergo copyediting, typesetting, and galley proof review before final publication. Please be aware that errors may be identified during production that could affect the content. All legal disclaimers of the journal apply.n

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Year : 2025 [if 2224 equals=””]11/09/2025 at 7:14 PM[/if 2224] | [if 1553 equals=””] Volume : 14 [else] Volume : 14[/if 1553] | [if 424 equals=”Regular Issue”]Issue : [/if 424][if 424 equals=”Special Issue”]Special Issue[/if 424] [if 424 equals=”Conference”][/if 424] 03 | Page : 10 18

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    Shamama Usmani, Asia Sultana, Fakhara Khan,

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  1. Junior Research Fellow, Professor, Assistant Professor, Department of Ilaj-Bit-Tadbeer, Faculty of Unani Medicine, Aligarh Muslim University, Aligarh, Department of Ilaj-Bit-Tadbeer, Faculty of Unani Medicine, Aligarh Muslim University, Aligarh, Department of Ain, Uzn, Anf, Halaq wa Asnan), Aligarh Unani Medical College & ACN Hospital, Aligarh, Uttar Pradesh, Uttar Pradesh, Uttar Pradesh, India, India

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Abstract

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nBackground: Depression is a common mental health condition characterized by feelings of sadness, diminished interest in activities, and physical symptoms that disrupt daily activities functioning. Emerging research indicates that nutrition and dietary habits can significantly influence the management of depression. This review aims to explore the connection between diet and mental health, highlighting how nutritional approaches may complement traditional treatments for depression. Objective: This review aims to evaluate the relationship between diet and depression, focusing on dietary patterns, nutrient deficiencies, and evidence-based dietary interventions that may support mental health. Methods: An extensive review of peer-reviewed publications, clinical trials, and meta-analytical studies was undertaken to assess the influence of dietary factors on depression. Key areas examined included the effects of specific dietary patterns (e.g., Mediterranean diet, Western diet) and nutrients, such as omega-3 fatty acids, B vitamins, and antioxidants on depressive symptoms. Discussion: Evidence indicates that healthy dietary patterns are linked to lower risk and severity of depression, likely due to their anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects. Essential nutrients, like omega-3 fatty acids, folate, vitamin D, and magnesium, play a crucial role in supporting mood regulation and cognitive function. Conversely, Western dietary patterns rich in processed foods, refined sugars, and trans fats have been linked to a higher risk of developing depression. Recent advance research also emphasizes the gut-brain axis as a vital pathway, with gut microbiota imbalances contributing to inflammation and depressive symptoms. Conclusion: Dietary interventions offer a promising adjunct to conventional treatments for depression. Encouraging a nutrient-dense diet may significantly improve mental health outcomes. Additional research is required to formulate personalized dietary interventions that consider individual nutritional requirements and cultural dietary practices.nn

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Keywords: Depression, diet, nutrients, mental health, Mediterranean diet, gut-brain axis, nutritional psychiatry

n[if 424 equals=”Regular Issue”][This article belongs to Journal of AYUSH: Ayurveda, Yoga, Unani, Siddha and Homeopathy ]

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[/if 424][if 424 equals=”Special Issue”][This article belongs to Special Issue under section in Journal of AYUSH: Ayurveda, Yoga, Unani, Siddha and Homeopathy (joayush)][/if 424][if 424 equals=”Conference”]This article belongs to Conference [/if 424]

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nShamama Usmani, Asia Sultana, Fakhara Khan. [if 2584 equals=”][226 wpautop=0 striphtml=1][else]Exploring the Therapeutic Potential of Ilāj-Bil-Ghizā (Dietotherapy) in Depression: A Systematic Review[/if 2584]. Journal of AYUSH: Ayurveda, Yoga, Unani, Siddha and Homeopathy. 26/06/2025; 14(03):10-18.

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nShamama Usmani, Asia Sultana, Fakhara Khan. [if 2584 equals=”][226 striphtml=1][else]Exploring the Therapeutic Potential of Ilāj-Bil-Ghizā (Dietotherapy) in Depression: A Systematic Review[/if 2584]. Journal of AYUSH: Ayurveda, Yoga, Unani, Siddha and Homeopathy. 26/06/2025; 14(03):10-18. Available from: https://journals.stmjournals.com/joayush/article=26/06/2025/view=0

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Volume 14
[if 424 equals=”Regular Issue”]Issue[/if 424][if 424 equals=”Special Issue”]Special Issue[/if 424] [if 424 equals=”Conference”][/if 424] 03
Received 11/05/2025
Accepted 24/06/2025
Published 26/06/2025
Retracted
Publication Time 46 Days

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