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Ultra-processed food reduction may improve anxiety and depression symptoms
A new pilot study published in JAMA Psychiatry suggests that reducing the consumption of ultra-processed foods may improve symptoms of anxiety and depression. Lead researcher Dr. Nyasha Chagwedera, an Assistant Professor of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences at the University of California, San Francisco (UCSF), noted that these foods may harm the gut in a way that subsequently affects the brain.
Ultra-processed foods are characterized by high levels of sugar, fats, or salt, and often contain additives such as hydrogenated oils, preservatives, flavor enhancers, dyes, emulsifiers, and sweeteners like high-fructose corn syrup. Common examples include soft drinks, energy drinks, processed meats, donuts, and pre-packaged soups. While the average Western diet consists of approximately 50% ultra-processed foods, this figure can reach 80% among younger populations.
Entities
JAMA Psychiatry · Nyasha Chagwedera · University of California, San Francisco
Claims
What the coverage asserts, and how many sources carry each claim.
- [● 4 SOURCES] The observational study involved 20 patients diagnosed with depression who had high ultra-processed food consumption, high BMI, and at least one metabolic disorder. www.lacronicabadajoz.com · www.informacion.es · www.eldia.es · www.levante-emv.com
- [● 4 SOURCES] Researchers at the University of California, San Francisco suggest reducing ultra-processed food consumption may improve depression and anxiety symptoms. www.lacronicabadajoz.com · www.informacion.es · www.eldia.es · www.levante-emv.com
- [● 4 SOURCES] The research was published in the scientific journal JAMA Psychiatry. www.lacronicabadajoz.com · www.informacion.es · www.eldia.es · www.levante-emv.com
- [● 4 SOURCES] Participants who reduced ultra-processed food consumption by more than 85% showed improvements in mental health indicators. www.lacronicabadajoz.com · www.informacion.es · www.eldia.es · www.levante-emv.com
- [● 4 SOURCES] Scientists suggest that intestinal damage caused by food additives may directly influence mental health and mood. www.lacronicabadajoz.com · www.informacion.es · www.eldia.es · www.levante-emv.com