28. Is It Depression, Anxiety...or Depletion? A Deeper Look at How Nutrition Affects Mental Health in Motherhood with Brittany Jones, MS, RD, LD
When a mother feels anxious, foggy, or not like herself postpartum, the conversation often centers around mental health — stress, sleep, hormones, or diagnosis.
But what if there’s another layer that often gets overlooked?
In this episode, I’m joined by registered dietitian Brittany Jones to explore postpartum depletion — and how nutrient deficiencies can sometimes mimic or amplify what feel like symptoms of anxiety or depression.
This isn’t about replacing mental health care with nutrition. It’s about expanding the lens and understanding how the body and mind are deeply connected in early motherhood.
We talk about what depletion actually means, why so many women are told everything is “normal” when it doesn’t feel that way, and how diet culture and the pressure to “bounce back” can contribute to under-fueling, low energy, and emotional overwhelm.
This is Part 1 of a two-part conversation. In Part 2, we’ll break down specific nutrients and how they support mental and emotional well-being.
In this episode:
* What “postpartum depletion” actually means
* How deficiencies can feel like anxiety or depression
* Why it’s not just psychological — and not just physical either
* The impact of diet culture and under-fueling in early motherhood
* A more integrated way to understand postpartum mental health
Brittany Jones, MS, RD, LD, is a registered dietitian with 15 years of experience, business owner, and mom who helps women and families simplify nutrition in real life. Through her weight-inclusive, non-diet approach, she supports clients in building sustainable habits that work for their busy lives—without guilt or overwhelm. As a mom herself, Brittany understands the challenges of feeding a family while also taking care of your own health.
Resources mentioned:
* Brittany Jones: brittanyjonesrd.com
* Instagram: @brittanyjonesnutrition
* Work with Susannah: susannahlongcoaching.com
* Free guide: Intrusive Thoughts in Early Motherhood (free mini course coming soon)
If this resonated, be sure to check back for Part 2 — where we’ll get more practical and break down key nutrients.
Download my FREE guide to understanding anxiety and intrusive thoughts in early motherhood HERE [susannahlongcoaching.com/freeguide].
Want more support on your journey? Check out more offerings and apply to work with me 1:1 at susannahlongcoaching.com [https://susannahlongcoaching.com/]
Got a question about early motherhood, anxiety, or anything we discussed today? I'd love to hear from you! Send your questions to susannah@susannahlongcoaching.com and I might feature your question (anonymously) in a future episode.
DISCLAIMER: This podcast represents the opinions of Susannah Long, LMFT. The content of this podcast is for educational purposes only and is not a replacement for medical or mental health care from a licensed mental health professional. In no way does listening, emailing, or interacting on social media platforms with content establish a therapist - client relationship or coach - client relationship.
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