The Gut–Brain Connection: Nutrition, Peri/Menopause, and Mental Health

Presented by: Westchester County Psychological Association Clinical Division

The Gut–Brain Connection: Nutrition, Peri/Menopause, and Mental Health

Summary:
Midlife women often experience a convergence of physical and psychological symptoms—including fatigue, brain fog, anxiety, mood changes, and metabolic shifts—that are frequently addressed in isolation. This presentation explores the interconnected role of the gut microbiome, nutrition, and lifestyle factors in shaping mental health during peri/menopause.

We will examine how modern-day influences—chronic stress, poor sleep, ultra-processed diets, low fiber intake, environmental exposures, and antibiotic use—can disrupt the gut microbiome, leading to reduced microbial diversity, impaired gut barrier function, and low-grade chronic inflammation. These changes have downstream effects on brain function, mood regulation, and overall resilience.

The session will highlight the bidirectional gut–brain axis, including how stress and elevated cortisol can alter gut integrity and microbial balance, contributing to a cycle of inflammation, anxiety, and fatigue.

Attendees will gain practical, evidence-informed strategies to support both gut and mental health in midlife women, including foundational nutrition principles to promote microbiome resilience and lifestyle approaches to support nervous system regulation. Emphasis will be placed on opportunities for interdisciplinary collaboration between nutrition and mental health professionals to better support this population.

Speaker's Bio: Daria Ventura, MS, RDN, CDN, is a Registered Dietitian Nutritionist and the Founder of Daria Ventura Nutrition, a private nutrition counseling and consulting practice based in Larchmont, New York. She  specializes in supporting midlife women through perimenopause and menopause, focusing on metabolic and gut health, hormone-related changes, and overall longevity.

Daria is known for translating complex science into practical, sustainable strategies that help women navigate common midlife concerns, including fatigue, brain fog, weight changes, digestive issues, sleep disruption, and shifts in mood and energy. Her work emphasizes a whole-body approach, recognizing the interconnected roles of nutrition, the gut microbiome, hormones, and lifestyle factors in supporting optimal health during this stage of life.

She earned her Master of Science in Clinical Nutrition from New York University, where she was a member of the Kappa Omicron Nu Honor Society, and completed her dietetic internship at New York–Presbyterian Hospital. In addition to her formal education, Daria is a Nutritious Life Master Certified Nutrition and Wellness Coach and holds a Certificate of Training in Weight Management for Adults through the Commission on Dietetic Registration. She is an active member of the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics and the Dietitians in Integrative and Functional Medicine Dietetic Practice Group.

Through her clinical work, group programs, and educational presentations, Daria’s mission is to eliminate confusion and help women build clarity, confidence, and consistency in their health habits. She takes a food-first, personalized approach—integrating nutrition, lifestyle, and behavior change strategies—to support long-term metabolic health, emotional well-being, and quality of life.

Daria lives in New York with her husband, two boys, and dog. When she is not working, she enjoys experimenting with new recipes, taking long walks with family and friends, playing golf, and traveling.

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