Junk food diet leads to depression

Eating junk food is harmful. We all know that it makes us fat, unhealthy but just few are aware of the fact that eating it can lead to depression. It has been proved that people who regularly consume high-fat foods, processed meals, desserts and sweets are 58 per cent more likely to suffer depression than those who choose a healthier ration including fruit, vegetables and fish.

The study is described as the first to find the link between overall diet and mental health. All the studies conducted before were focused on the effects of individual foods. This research has been wider and gives us more important information.

Dr Eric Brunner, one of the researchers from University College London, commented:

There seem to be various aspects of lifestyle such as taking exercise which also matter, but it appears that diet is playing an independent role.’

The study involved 3,486 men and women aged around 55. The participants were asked to complete a questionnaire about their eating habits and write a self-report assessment for depression five years later.

It was found out that those who ate lots of processed food were at least 58 per cent more likely to be depressed five years later than those eating the least amount.

The results of the study can be explained by the fact that high levels of antioxidants in fruits and vegetables tend to protect against depression, as well we the folate found in broccoli, cabbage, spinach, lentils and chickpeas.

Thus, we should be very selective with what we eat.

Dr Andrew McCulloch, chief executive of the Mental Health Foundation, said:

We are particularly concerned about those who cannot access fresh produce easily or live in areas where there are a high number of fast food restaurants and takeaways.’

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