Eating citrus fruits regularly may significantly lower your risk of developing depression, according to a groundbreaking new study published in the journal Microbiome. The research found that consuming higher amounts of citrus fruits was associated with a 22% reduced risk of depression.
Researchers from Harvard Medical School and Massachusetts General Hospital conducted a 15-year study on over 32,400 individuals, tracking their citrus intake and observing who developed clinical depression. The results showed that frequent citrus consumers had significantly lower depression rates compared to those who didn’t eat as much citrus.
The key mechanism behind the protective effect of citrus fruits lies in their impact on the gut microbiome. The researchers found that frequent citrus eaters had higher levels of beneficial bacteria, particularly Faecalibacterium prausnitzii, which fights inflammation and supports brain health. This microbe is also known to play a role in regulating neurotransmitters serotonin and dopamine, which can elevate mood.
While citrus fruits aren’t the only dietary choice that can positively impact mental health, other foods such as leafy greens, berries, nuts, and seeds have also demonstrated mood-enhancing properties. A healthy lifestyle, including regular exercise, adequate sleep, social connections, and stress management through mindfulness or meditation, is also crucial for maintaining good mental health.
The study’s findings provide compelling evidence that diet profoundly influences mental health and highlight the importance of incorporating more citrus fruits into your daily diet to support overall well-being.
Source: https://www.zmescience.com/science/why-oranges-and-lemons-are-surprisingly-good-for-your-mental-health