A few months ago, Korean and Vietnamese researchers published a study in Child and Adolescent Psychiatry and Mental Health, showing a connection between diet and mental health in teens.
Using data collected from over 65,000 teenagers, researchers analyzed dietary behaviour, psychological well-being, and mental distress.
What they found was that those who participated in positive dietary behaviours were more likely to report better health, happiness and sleep satisfaction, as well as less stress and depression. Conversely, those who participated in unhealthy dietary behaviours were more likely to report worse health, happiness and sleep satisfaction, as well as higher stress and depression.
So what did the researchers classify as positive dietary behaviours and unhealthy dietary behaviours?
Positive dietary behaviours
- Eating breakfast regularly
- Consuming fruits and vegetables
- Drinking milk at least once a day
Unhealthy dietary behaviours
- Drinking caffeinated drinks
- Consuming soft drinks and sweet drinks
- Eating fast food
This study joins a growing body of research showing a strong connection between nutrition and mental health. Here at Truehope, we’ve been promoting nutrition as mental health treatment for over 20 years.