If research is to be believed, eating an apple daily could help prevent depression.
Researchers surveyed nearly 430 adults to determine the relationship between eating habits and mental health.
Results indicated that those who consumed the recommended five servings of fruit per day were less likely to be depressed.
However, the converse was true for those who enjoyed snacking on crisps. However, no such associations were found for vegetable consumption.
The authors asserted that the raw consumption of fruit may be responsible for its health benefits.
Important brain-functioning antioxidants, fiber, and micronutrients can be lost during the cooking process.
Nicola-Jayne Tuck, a doctoral student at Aston University in Birmingham and the study’s lead author, remarked, ‘Changing what we snack on could be a very simple and straightforward way to improve our mental health.
Overall, it is worthwhile to attempt to develop the habit of reaching for the fruit bowl.
The British Journal of Nutrition-published study surveyed 428 healthy adults between the ages of 18 and 60.
They were all asked how frequently they consumed fruits and vegetables, with responses ranging from never to at least five.
In addition, participants were asked how frequently they consumed sweets (such as chocolate bars or donuts) or savory processed snacks (like crisps).
The questionnaire also asked them to rate their level of happiness, sadness, anxiety, alertness, drowsiness, withdrawnness, and hunger.
In addition, they were asked questions to assess their levels of depression, anxiety, and psychological health as a whole.
Researchers considered age, gender, body mass index, physical activity, general health, and alcohol consumption.
Fruit consumption was highly associated with lower depression and greater mental wellness.
Eating more savory snacks was associated with increased anxiety and “daily mental lapses.”
The scientists did not specify how much fruit must be consumed for mental health advantages, nor did they recommend a maximum amount of crisps.
