Consume at least two servings of fruit a day

The fruit may help ward off depression. Suggests a study published by the European Journal of Clinical Nutrition. Australian researchers, based on data from more than 6000 middle-aged women followed for six years, they looked like those who consumed at least two servings of fruit a day had a chance to suffer from depressive symptoms - or to go there later meeting - of 14% and 18% lower compared to those who ate less. The vegetables, however, did not seem to affect.



It is very likely, however, that fruits and vegetables act synergistically

"What emerges from this research - says John Camardese, head of depressive disorders at the Gemelli Hospital in Rome - is obviously more interesting to strengthen the positive role of the fruit to diminish that of vegetables. It is very likely, in fact, that fruits and vegetables act synergistically: it is also observed in another study, this time in Canada, conducted on approximately 10 000 people and posted on Preventive Medicine, which states that a diet rich in fruits and vegetables can reduce the occurrence of depressive disorders even 27% among those who consumed the highest amounts. The antioxidant and anti-inflammatory, such as carotenoids and flavonoids which are rich in these foods, can reduce the damaging effects of oxidative stress on the central nervous system. This stress can have a negative impact on certain neurotransmitters (serotonin, norepinephrine, dopamine) that contribute to the regulation of mood and affect the occurrence of depressive symptoms. Do not forget, however, that the plants make other substances that may have a role in reducing the risk of depression. “So diet rich in fruits and vegetables. And then? "It varies, pleasing to the eye and the palate, inspired by the Mediterranean model, - says the expert - with preference for whole grains, olive oil, fish, legumes, dried fruits, nuts, and moderate amounts of dairy products and lean meats. The latter (such as fish) are sources of vitamin B 12. B 12 (such as the B 6 and folic acid) is involved in the metabolism of homocysteine (product of digestion of protein), which has been associated with an increased risk of depression. "