Nutrition is a Social Justice Issue: Unraveling the Commercial Determinants of Health

In this groundbreaking presentation, Dr. David Wiss bridges critical gaps between public health, mental health, and nutrition through the lens of the commercial determinants of health (CDoH). Drawing from his extensive clinical experience and research background, Dr. Wiss reveals how powerful commercial actors shape our food environment and, consequently, our mental health outcomes.

The Commercial Determinants of Mental Health

The presentation explores how transnational corporations, particularly in the ultra-processed food industry, influence health outcomes through various channels:

• Political practices that secure preferential treatment
• Scientific manipulation of research and peer review processes
• Strategic marketing targeting vulnerable populations
• Sophisticated reputation management techniques
• Creation of front groups and astroturf organizations

Mental Health Nutrition: Following the Evidence

Dr. Wiss presents compelling research linking ultra-processed foods to various mental health conditions:

• Depression and persistent depressive symptoms
• Aggressive behaviors and antisocial tendencies
• ADHD symptoms and behavioral issues
• Sleep disturbances and anxiety
• Addiction-like eating patterns

A Public Health Crisis

The presentation reveals how commercial determinants create a “perfect storm” for poor mental health outcomes through:

• Food swamps that inundate communities with ultra-processed foods
• Targeted marketing to vulnerable populations
• Industry influence on nutrition policy and education
• Systematic suppression of nutrition research in mental health
• Corporate capture of professional organizations

Beyond Individual Choice

Dr. Wiss challenges traditional narratives about personal responsibility, revealing how commercial actors:

• Shape social norms and cultural expectations
• Influence scientific research and public policy
• Create environments that promote addiction-like eating
• Disproportionately impact vulnerable communities
• Externalize health costs to society

A Path Forward

The presentation concludes with actionable solutions for addressing these systemic issues:

• Value-based eating approaches that align with social justice
• Integration of nutrition in mental health treatment
• Policy reforms to regulate harmful commercial practices
• Enhanced transparency in nutrition research and education
• Improved access to mental health nutrition services

This presentation offers a crucial perspective on the intersection of mental health, nutrition, and social justice, providing a framework for understanding how commercial interests shape our food environment and mental health outcomes. It calls for a fundamental shift in how we approach nutrition and mental health care, emphasizing the need to address systemic issues while supporting individual healing.