The Mediterranean Diet has taken the market by storm for the various positive remarks it is getting from both followers and health experts. Recently, a new study says that moderately following this diet could prevent depression and support mental health.
Researchers from the Seguimiento Universidad de Navarra (SUN) Project which began in 1999, found out that a diet loaded with fruits, vegetables, beans, nuts and olive oil could prevent the occurrence of depression. Based on the study of more than 15,000 people, sticking to this healthy diet may be the solution to the growing predicament of depression among individuals across the globe, reports Forbes.
The participants of the study followed three diets namely the Mediterranean Diet, Pro-Dietary Pattern and the Alternative Health Eating Index - 2010. All of these were proven to produce positive effects on one's health but according to the finding of the study, better compliance on the three diets which are all similar, was linked to reduced risk of depression among Spanish adults.
Thus, the scientists concluded that omega-3 fatty acids, fruits, nuts and vegetables could slash back the risk of depression.
So scientists say common nutrients and food items such as omega-3 fatty acids, vegetables, fruits, beans, nuts and moderate alcohol intake present in both patterns could be responsible for cutting the risk of depression.
Dr. Almudena Sanchez-Villegas, from the University of Las Palmas de Gran Canaria told Mail Online, "We wanted to understand what role nutrition plays in mental health, as we believe certain dietary patterns could protect our minds"
He added, "These diets are all associated with physical health benefits and now we find that they could have a positive effect on our mental health.The protective role is ascribed to the foods' nutritional properties, where nuts, legumes, fruits and vegetables, all sources of omega-3 fatty acids, vitamins and minerals, could reduce the risk of depression."
The study was published in the journal BMC Medicine.
