Young men with a poor diet reported a decrease in symptoms of depression when they switched to the Mediterranean diet compared to young men who underwent befriending therapy, a new study shows.
Some were put on the Mediterranean diet, which involves eating lots of fruits and vegetables, beans and nuts, healthy grains, fish, olive oil, small amounts of meat and dairy, and red wine. The control group was given befriending therapy, in which they were provided social support. Assessments were taken at the start of the study and after six and 12 weeks.
The young men on the Mediterranean diet measured “significantly higher” on the Beck Depression Inventory Scale and a quality-of-life measurement, the study says.The finding suggests doctors and psychologists should consider referring depressed young men to a nutritionist or dietitian.
There are lots of reasons why food affects mood. For example, around 90 percent of serotonin, a chemical that helps us feel happy, is made in our gut by our gut microbes. There is emerging evidence that these microbes can communicate to the brain via the vagus nerve, in what is called the gut-brain axis.
The Mediterranean diet is known to have many benefits, such as lowering a person’s risk of type 2 diabetes, heart disease, Alzheimer’s disease, stroke, and other conditions.
To learn more about the body-mind connection and about how to create wellness programs for happier, less stressed, more engaged employees, visit SelfCare for HealthCare™. Contact me today to discuss implementing this powerful program at your facility. Interested in LeAnn Thieman’s keynote speaking, training and workshops? Email lthieman@leannthieman.com.
