Researchers reviewed 41 studies on diet and depression occurrence and found that inflammatory diets that include high amounts of processed meats and trans fats increased the incidence rates for clinical depression.
Results showed antioxidants from vegetables, nuts, and fruits help regulate emotions among other protective effects.
Researchers suspect the healthful diet of vegetables, nuts and fruits reduces inflammation, oxidative stress and insulin resistance; all of which are linked to depression.
Lassale C, Batty GD, Baghdadli A, et al. Healthy dietary indices and risk of depressive outcomes: a systematic review and meta-analysis of observational studies. Mol Psychiatry. Published online September 26, 2018.