A new study conducted by Australian researchers has found that a change in diet can significantly reduce symptoms of depression in just a few weeks. The study, published in the journal PLOS ONE, focused on individuals with depression who often lead unhealthy lifestyles, consuming too much sugar and fat and engaging in little physical activity. While depression can contribute to unhealthy habits, the study suggests that poor diet may also be a contributing factor to the illness. Previous studies have shown that regular exercise can reduce the risk of depression by 25%, while a healthy diet can reduce the risk by 11%.
The study involved 76 students between the ages of 17 and 35 who showed moderate symptoms of depression and had unhealthy diets. The participants were divided into two groups, with one group continuing their unhealthy diet while the other group switched to a Mediterranean diet consisting of five servings of vegetables, two to three servings of fruit, good proteins from fish, tofu, dairy, and eggs, as well as whole grains, olive oil, and nuts. The participants also avoided products with simple carbohydrates, soft drinks, and foods with high sugar or fat content. The study found that after just three weeks, the group that switched to the Mediterranean diet showed a significant reduction in depressive symptoms.
The researchers emphasized that while a healthy diet can support the healing of depression, it should not replace psychotherapy or medication. However, the study provides evidence that a change in diet can be a helpful addition to traditional treatments. The study also highlights the importance of healthy eating habits in preventing and managing mental health issues, particularly in young adults who are at a higher risk of developing depression.
