A new study indicates that a diet rich ultra-processed foods and refined carbohydrates may increase the risk depression and other mental health conditions. The research has been published the Journal of the Academy Nutrition and Dietetics. Kristin Kirkpatrick, a nutritional psychologist and registered dietitian, said there is "a tremendous amount high-quality data linking food to beneficial (or worsening) mental health outcomes". Ms Kirkpatrick advised people to reduce the amount sugary and low-fibre food they eat to lessen the chances developing mood disorders. She wrote: "Limits should be made sugar, refined grains, ultra-processed foods, and alcohol."
Ms Kirkpatrick also advised people to increase their intake high-fibre and fermented foods. She said the plant-based Mediterranean diet has been shown to be effective reducing depression. She said the diet included "omega-3 fatty acids, colourful plants berries, extra virgin olive oil, leafy greens, and lean sources protein". She added that the diet "has been shown to assist both depression and anxiety". Related research from Professor Felice Jacka at Deakin University Australia corroborated Ms Kirkpatrick's findings. Dr Jacka said fermented, probiotic foods may influence brain-related biology and lead to more positive moods and enhanced learning.
