Eating more fruits and vegetables may have a positive impact on reducing depression, according to a recent study that focused on adults aged 45 and older. The research, conducted using data from four major international studies of twins, found a correlation between higher intake of fruits and vegetables and lower symptoms of depression over an 11-year period.
The study, led by the Centre for Healthy Brain Ageing (CHeBA) at UNSW Sydney, analyzed data from 3,483 twins from Australia, Denmark, Sweden, and the U.S. Published in Scientific Reports, the findings highlight the potential benefits of increasing fruit and vegetable consumption in adults over the age of 45.
Depressive disorders are a significant contributor to the disease burden in older adults, with individuals experiencing symptoms ranging from mild depression to severe major depressive disorder. The study revealed that individuals with major depression tend to have higher levels of pro-inflammatory and oxidative stress markers, as well as lower levels of antioxidant markers compared to healthy individuals.
One of the strengths of the study lies in its twin design, which allows researchers to control for genetic and environmental factors. Twin pairs share a significant portion of their genetic background and family environment, making them ideal subjects for studying the impact of fruit and vegetable intake on depressive symptoms.
Participants in the study were members of the Interplay of Genes and Environment across Multiple Studies (IGEMS) consortium, which included the Older Australian Twins Study, Minnesota Twin Study of Adult Development and Aging, Middle Age Danish Twins Study, and The Swedish Adoption/Twin Study of Aging. The research focused on individuals aged 45 and older with baseline data on fruit and vegetable intake and depressive symptoms.
Interestingly, the study found that even high fruit and vegetable intake levels were below the recommended daily intake of most countries. The researchers emphasized the potential benefits of consuming fruits and vegetables, citing high levels of dietary fiber, vitamins, and micronutrients as contributing factors to their positive impact on mental health.
Moreover, the consumption of fruits and vegetables may also influence the gut microbiome and protect against oxidative damage to the brain. The researchers highlighted the role of the gut microbiome in inflammation and its potential impact on depression, underscoring the importance of a balanced diet rich in fruits and vegetables.
Overall, the study adds to the growing body of evidence supporting the link between diet and mental health, particularly in older adults. By increasing fruit and vegetable intake, individuals may be able to reduce their risk of depression and improve their overall well-being.
