Consuming large amounts of ultra-processed foods and drinks, especially if they are artificially sweetened, may be linked to the development of depression, according to a new study.

“The study suggests a relationship between the consumption of ultra-processed foods and depression, with an approximately 50% higher risk for those who consume 9 servings (per day) or more (the top 20%) compared to those who consume 4 servings or less “says Gunter Kuhnle, professor of Food Sciences and Nutrition at the University of Reading, United Kingdom, in a statement. Kuhnle was not involved in the study.

Ultra-processed foods include soups, sauces, frozen pizzas, convenience foods, and indulgence foods such as hot dogs, sausages, French fries, sodas, store-bought cookies, cakes, candies, donuts, ice cream, as well as many more foods and beverages than they contain artificial sweeteners.

“Our study focused on the relationship between food and subsequent risk of developing a new episode of depression,” said study co-author Dr. Andrew T. Chan, Daniel K. Podolsky Professor of Medicine, in Harvard Medical School, and professor of Immunology and Infectious Diseases at the T.H. School of Public Health. Chan from Harvard, in Boston.

According to scientific research, a diet rich in sugar and therefore low diversity of the intestinal microbiota, can lead to chronic inflammation, which is related to a series of mental and physical problems.

What foods does the study refer to?

The ultra-processed foods referred to in the study are: soups, sauces, frozen pizzas and pre-cooked meals.
Other foods that the study points out are hot dogs, sausages, French fries, soft drinks, store-bought cookies, cakes, candies, donuts, ice cream, among others.

Factors that reduce the risk of suffering from depression.

A study carried out by scientists from the University of Cambridge (United Kingdom) and Fudan (China), published in Nature Mental Health on September 11, confirmed that having a healthy diet contributes 6% to reducing the risk of suffering from depression.

Some recommended foods to include in a healthy diet and prevent depression are: yogurt, dark chocolate, eggs, oily fish, nuts and whole grains. These are foods high in vitamin D, rich in probiotics and that stimulate neurotransmitters such as dopamine and serotonin.

Text Source: https://www.chvnoticias.cl/ https://cnnespanol.cnn.com/https://eldiario.com/
Image Source: https://eldiario.com/