Understanding the Overlap Between Mental and Metabolic Health

In a recent MYOS MD Power Panel, Dr. George Makrides, a naturopathic doctor based in Toronto, shared insights into the deep and often overlooked connection between mental and metabolic health. Specializing in integrative mental health and chronic disease prevention, Dr. Makrides stated, "We must stop separating the body and mind. They function as a single, dynamic system in constant communication."

Dr. Makrides outlined several overlapping physiological pathways that influence both metabolic disorders and mental health conditions, including:

• Chronic low-grade inflammation
• HPA axis dysregulation and cortisol imbalances
• Neurotransmitter imbalances affecting mood and appetite
• Gut-brain axis disruptions

Blood Sugar and Mood Stability

"Blood sugar swings can lead directly to mood swings," explained Dr. Makrides. Insulin resistance deprives the brain of essential fuel, leading to symptoms like fatigue, brain fog, and emotional instability. He emphasized that hypoglycemia can mimic anxiety symptoms, causing unnecessary psychiatric interventions when metabolic treatment might be more appropriate.

Mitochondrial Function and Mental Wellness

Modern psychiatry is shifting from a focus on neurotransmitter imbalances to a broader view that includes mitochondrial function. "Mitochondria are the powerhouses of our cells, and their dysfunction can manifest as poor concentration, fatigue, and low stress resilience," said Dr. Makrides. He highlighted the importance of metabolic flexibility—the ability to switch between fuel sources—as key to maintaining mental stability and energy.

Personalized Nutrition and Care

Rejecting one-size-fits-all diets, Dr. Makrides advocated for personalized nutritional strategies. "Forget diet dogma. Focus on what supports your cellular health," he advised. He emphasized the role of unprocessed foods and reducing inflammatory triggers such as seed oils and high omega-6 intake.

Recommended supplements included:

• Magnesium (bisglycinate or L-threonate)
• Probiotics (~50 billion CFUs)
• High-quality omega-3s
• Therapeutic-dose multivitamins with active B vitamins and trace minerals

Functional Testing: The Root Cause Approach

Dr. Makrides uses a variety of functional medicine tests to pinpoint metabolic and mental health imbalances. These include:

• Organic acid testing for microbial health and nutrient metabolism
• Comprehensive stool analyses
• Advanced lipid panels and fasting insulin tests
• Salivary hormone panels
• Food sensitivity testing

"We can measure nearly every process contributing to chronic disease today. Testing allows us to stop guessing and start treating precisely," he said.

Gut Health and Neuroinflammation

According to Dr. Makrides, "Healing the gut is often the first and most impactful intervention for mental health." With the majority of serotonin synthesized in the gut and a large portion of immune function housed in the gastrointestinal tract, disruptions here can fuel neuroinflammation and psychological symptoms.

Muscle Health and Longevity

"Muscle health is one of the most powerful levers we have to extend healthspan," Dr. Makrides noted. Sarcopenia, or age-related muscle loss, contributes to frailty and cognitive decline. He recommended resistance training and daily movement as fundamental to metabolic resilience and mental wellbeing.

Closing Thoughts: Integration Over Isolation

Dr. Makrides concluded, "True healing happens when we integrate disciplines and ask why—not just how—to treat dysfunction. Functional medicine bridges that gap." He urged providers to collaborate, remain curious, and personalize their approach to care.

MYOS MD provides tools for health care professionals focused on muscle health as a key component of metabolic and mental resilience. Learn more about Fortetropin and our approach to muscle preservation at MyosMD.com.