In 2011, researchers in China published a study in Public Health Nutrition about the effect specific diets have on mental health.
This group of 8 researchers—along with public and school nurses, as well as interviewers—studied the eating habits of over 5,000 Chinese youth ranging in age from 13–21. They also measured their levels of depression and anxiety.
What they discovered is that diets high in processed foods or animal-based foods increased the risk of depression and anxiety. On the other hand, they discovered a traditional Chinese diet actually lowered the risk of depression and anxiety.
What is a traditional Chinese diet? One that includes the following foods:
- Whole grains
- Fruits
- Vegetables
- Rice
- Some soya products
So, as much as we’d like it to be true, conventional Chinese takeout probably isn’t going to help your mental health that much. Focus on whole foods instead.
A 2006 study found similar correlations, finding a traditional Mediterranean diet (fruits, nuts, vegetables, cereals, legumes, and fish) also protected against depression in young people.
If we want to make sure we have optimal mental health, we need to be vigilant about not only taking Truehope products, such as EMPowerplus, but about making traditional, whole-food diets a part of our lifestyle.
Happy eating!
吃的开心