Nearly three years ago, researchers published an article in the American Journal of Psychiatry outlining their recent findings connecting diet with depression and anxiety disorders.
The researchers analyzed two questionnaires sent to over 1000 women aged 20–93: a food frequency questionnaire and a general health questionnaire. The two questionnaires allowed the researchers to identify habitual dietary patterns and measure psychological symptoms. They also used a structured clinical interview to examine the extent of any existing disorders with each women.
The researchers discovered two things, neither of them surprising.
First, diets high in processed or fried foods, refined grains, sugary products, and beer were associated with higher odds for depression and anxiety orders.
Second, diets high in vegetables, fruit, meat, fish, and whole grains were associated with lower odds for depression and anxiety orders.
This research is consistent with other research we’ve share on this blog: that when it comes to good mental health, nutrition matters.