RESTRICTIVE DIETS AND THE PRODUCTION OF NEUROTRANSMITTERS

Abstract

This study is a qualitative literature review that aimed to analyze the impact of restrictive diets on neurotransmitter production, identifying the role of the gut microbiota and the gut–brain axis in this process, as well as their influence on human behavior and metabolic health. The search was conducted in the SciELO, PubMed, LILACS, and Google Scholar databases, using descriptors such as “restrictive diets,” “neurotransmitters,” “neuronutrition,” “dysbiosis,” and “neurochemical effects,” with inclusion criteria of studies published between 2015 and 2025. Ten relevant articles were included. The results indicated that dietary restriction reduces body weight but also decreases the production of neurotransmitters such as serotonin and dopamine, which may affect mood and emotional balance. It was observed that intestinal dysbiosis is associated with neuroinflammation, oxidative stress, and dysfunction of the Hypothalamic–Pituitary–Adrenal axis, interfering with neurotransmitter synthesis. Nutritional interventions such as the use of probiotics, prebiotics, and fiber-rich diets showed cognitive improvement and reduction of depressive and anxiety symptoms. It is concluded that restrictive diets, although metabolically effective in the short term, may impair mental health and microbial diversity. Balanced nutritional strategies and professional guidance are essential to promote harmony between metabolism, gut microbiota, and emotional well-being.