Italian researchers recently published a study in The Journal of Nutrition, Health & Aging, showing a connection between what elderly women eat and depression.
The researchers studied the mental health and eating habits of nearly 300 women who were at lest 90 years old.
They discovered that among the 6 types of food typical of a Mediterranean diet, olive oil and fruit seemed to be the most connected to improved mental health. Participants who consumed to highest amount of olive oil (daily) and fruit (18 servings per month) had a lower risk of depression than those who consumed the least of those foods.
This study joins a growing body of research showing a strong connection between mental health and what we consume. Here at Truehope, we’ve been promoting nutrition as mental health treatment for over 20 years.