Certificate in Behavioral Health Nutrition (CBHN)

With increasing recognition of the connection between nutrition, brain health, and behavioral well-being, the Certificate in Behavioral Health Nutrition has been developed by the Centre for Nutrition and Dietetics Studies at IGMPI to provide a comprehensive understanding of the nutritional aspects of mental and behavioral health conditions. This certification programme explores the relationship between diet, brain chemistry, and behavioral disorders, with a focus on how nutritional strategies can support mental health and improve quality of life.

The curriculum covers key topics such as schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, along with the role of neurotransmitters, gut–brain interactions, and anti-inflammatory dietary approaches in supporting psychological and neurological health. Participants will gain insights into nutritional deficiencies commonly associated with behavioral disorders, the impact of lifestyle factors on mental well-being, and the role of diet in supporting mood regulation and cognitive function.

This certification is ideal for nutritionists, dietitians, psychologists, healthcare practitioners, counselors, educators, and wellness professionals who wish to expand their knowledge of the diet–brain connection and apply nutrition-based strategies to support individuals experiencing behavioral and psychological challenges.

Programme Structure

International Affiliation with

Module 1: Introduction to Behavioural Disorders

• Introduction to behavioural and mental health disorders

• Common types and symptoms

• Factors influencing behavioural health

Module 2: Brain Chemistry and Cortisol

• Role of neurotransmitters in mood and behavior

• Nutrients required for neurotransmitter synthesis

• Understanding cortisol and its effect on stress and mood

Module 3: Gut–Brain Axis

• Connection between gut health and brain function

• Role of gut microbiota in mental health

• Influence of diet on gut–brain communication

Module 4: Schizophrenia and Bipolar Disorder Nutrition

• Overview and types of schizophrenia

• Positive, negative, and cognitive symptoms

• Types of bipolar disorder and mood cycle patterns

• Symptoms of manic and depressive phases

Module 5: Nutrition for behaviour disorders

• Nutritional concerns in schizophrenia patients

• Role of nutrients and anti-inflammatory diets

• Nutritional considerations in bipolar disorder

Module 6: Mood-Stabilizing Nutrition

• Nutritional factors affecting mood stability

• Role of magnesium, omega-3, vitamin D, and B-complex vitamins

• Diet planning strategies to support mood regulation

Module 7: Case Studies & Practical Applications

• Case study discussions

• Nutritional planning for behavioural disorders

• Practical dietary interventions for mental health support 

Eligibility

Any Diploma holder/ graduation/ B.tech/ B.Sc. in Nutrition/ Home Science/ Microbiology/ Life Sciences/ Botany/ Zoology/ Food Science/ Food Technology/ BE/ B.Pharma/ MBBS/ BDS/ BHMS/ BUMS/ BAMS or any other discipline. 

Programme Duration

The duration of the certificate programme is 4 days.

Programme Mode

Registration is currently open for Part-time (Online Live Classes) mode.

Programme Deliverables

• The training material is appropriately aligned with the current Industry's expectations.
• Interactive online live sessions on all key areas of the programme giving all flexibility to the participants.
• Online discussion of the certificate programme topics for ensuring active participation of each attendee.
• All learning and training delivery initiatives shall be conducted in English.

Assessment & Certification

Online assessment will be conducted at the end of the programme and after successful completion; the participants will be awarded Certificate in Behavioral Health Nutrition by Centre for Nutrition and Dietetics Studies, IGMPI.

Discipline in Classes and Examination

Every student is required to observe a disciplined behaviour during her/his classes, assessments & examinations and to follow instructions from the Professors. Any act of indiscipline may result into discredit & it will be mentioned in her/his academic report.

Future Career Prospects

The Certificate in Behavioral Health Nutrition offered by the Centre for Nutrition and Dietetics Studies (CNDS), IGMPI, prepares participants to understand the relationship between nutrition, brain health, and behavioral disorders, and to apply evidence-based nutritional strategies that support mental well-being. Certified professionals will gain the knowledge to identify nutrition-related factors influencing mood and behavior, design supportive dietary approaches, and provide informed guidance within multidisciplinary healthcare settings.

Career opportunities for certified professionals include roles such as Behavioral Nutrition Consultant, Clinical Nutritionist, Mental Health Nutrition Educator, Wellness Coach, and Lifestyle Disorder Specialist. With the growing recognition of the diet–brain connection and nutritional psychiatry, trained professionals will find opportunities in hospitals, mental health clinics, rehabilitation centers, wellness institutes, educational organizations, research bodies, and private nutrition consultancy practices.

View Prospectus

Apply Online

Last date for submitting completed Application Form: 27^th Mar 2026.

For further enquiries, call or write to us on:
18001031071 (Toll Free -9:00 am to 5:30 pm IST-except on Central Government holidays)/ info@igmpi.ac.in