Nutrition is a staple of our daily lives, whether we realize it or not, by opting for healthier, home-cooked choices in our diet or giving in to the glutton of what tastes best. However we choose to eat, what we eat ultimately affects our lifestyle – from how well we exercise, to cognitive function and even to how long we live.
Vegetables and Legumes in A High-Nutrient Diet
A new study published in BioMed Central journal revealed that what we eat and how consistent we are with our diets can reduce the risk of depression. The researchers determined consuming diets high in fruits, vegetables, nuts, legumes and were low in processed meats may decrease the onset of depression.
The longitudinal study surveyed 15,093 individuals with no depression at the start of the study with how strict they maintained one of three diets – the Mediterranean diet, the Pro-vegetarian Dietary Pattern, and the Alternative Healthy Eating Index-2010.
Ten years after the initial survey, 1,550 individuals reported diagnosis of clinical depression or had used antidepressants.
The Alternative Healthy Eating Index-2010 was observed with having the greatest reduced risk of depression among the diets. High-nutrient diet is Similar to the Mediterranean diet, both diets feature omega-3 fatty acids, vegetables, nuts, fruits, legumes and moderate alcohol consumption, according to the BMC Journal press release.
Lead researcher Almudena Sanchez-Villegas of the University of Las Palmas de Gran Canaria said in the press release, “Noticeable difference occurs when participants start to follow a healthier diet. Even a moderate adherence to these healthy dietary patterns was associated with an important reduction in the risk of developing depression.”
Continued research can revolutionize the treatment of depression and other mental illnesses. If further research is conducted to the extent of determining how a holistic approach to treating depression and mental illness, it can very well be possible for those battling mental disorders to take a more well-rounded approach to mental health.
