Several Foods that May Cause Depression Worse, Study Claims
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The results were broken down into four groups to differentiate the diets of the volunteers.
Those who consumed ultra-processed foods making up at least 31% of their diet daily, the worst diet, were up to 82% more likely to be diagnosed with depression during the study, compared to people who ate few ultra-processed foods, less than 16% of their daily consumption.
It should be noted that the study relied on self-reported data, so some conclusions may require further research.
People who are already depressed may be more likely to turn to processed foods, which means the study does not conclusively conclude that these foods contribute to depression.
"Many of the foods that this study suggests are associated with depression are not considered routine components of a healthy diet," explained Duane Mellor from Aston University in Birmingham, UK.
"It could be that factors associated with depression may also cause people not to eat an ideal diet. Therefore, it is still difficult to say that ultra-processed foods are strongly associated with depression.” Mellor added.
Meanwhile, another recent study found that people could be at higher risk of cognitive decline if more than 20% of their daily calorie intake came from ultra-processed foods.
In addition to cognitive decline, ultra-processed foods may be associated with an increased risk of obesity, heart and circulation problems, diabetes, cancer, and a shorter life span.
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