Farmers Struggle to Prioritize Their Own Nutrition Amid Stress

Experts say nutrition plays a key role in mental health and resilience, but many farmers neglect their own diets.

Published on Feb. 27, 2026

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This article explores how farmers often prioritize the nutrition of their livestock over their own, despite the significant impact that diet can have on mental health, stress levels, and overall wellbeing. The piece features insights from experts like nutritionist Leslie Bonci and farmer Justin Jamison, who share how making small changes to their diets has dramatically improved their health and ability to handle the stresses of farm life.

Why it matters

Farmers face immense stress and pressure in their work, but often neglect their own self-care, including proper nutrition. This can create a vicious cycle, as poor diet can exacerbate stress and negatively impact mental health. By prioritizing their own nutrition, farmers can improve their resilience, decision-making, and overall wellbeing, which benefits both themselves and their operations.

The details

The article highlights how stress can lead to emotional eating and poor nutrition habits among farmers, similar to the way stress impacts the eating patterns of livestock. Experts explain that nutrients like protein, complex carbs, and key vitamins play a crucial role in brain function and mood regulation. The piece profiles farmer Justin Jamison, who worked with his nutritionist wife to overhaul his diet and saw dramatic improvements in his health, including weight loss and reduced blood pressure and cholesterol.

  • The article was published on February 27, 2026.

The players

Michele Payn

The author of the article and founder of Cause Matters Corp., a company that helps the agriculture community have tough conversations.

Leslie Bonci

A registered dietitian nutritionist and nationally-recognized sports nutritionist who has worked with professional athletes, including the Kansas City Chiefs.

Justin Jamison

A farmer who worked with his nutritionist wife to overhaul his diet and dramatically improve his health.

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What they’re saying

“To bring myself back, I force myself to do two things – wash my face, even if it's just a few swipes with a wipe, and eat a good breakfast – protein, healthy fat, smart carb.”

— Logan Williams, Farmer (agproud.com)

“Mood changes happen in the gray matter. It's not just the what we eat, it's the how.”

— Leslie Bonci, Registered Dietitian Nutritionist (agproud.com)

“After some blood work to better understand my overall health and nutrition, she introduced me to an advanced nutrition tracking app Chronometer, and she adjusted the targets for daily energy, protein, carbs, fat and micronutrients needed to meet my goals. After nine months of managing my daily 'ration' as well as incorporating moderate daily exercise, I dramatically improved my health: I lost 40 pounds, have no high blood pressure, no high cholesterol, no brain fog.”

— Justin Jamison, Farmer (agproud.com)

What’s next

The article indicates that nutritionist Leslie Bonci will offer specific diet and nutrition tips for farmers in an upcoming column.

The takeaway

This article highlights the importance of farmers prioritizing their own nutrition and self-care, just as they do for their livestock. By making small changes to their diets and incorporating more whole, nutrient-dense foods, farmers can improve their mental health, resilience, and ability to handle the significant stresses of farm life.