The dangers of processed food have been well-known for many decades, contributing to conditions such as hypertension, diabetes, high cholesterol, and leading to heart disease and stroke. What’s alarming is that this type of food also increases the risk of depression.
In a Harvard study (2003-2017) with over 30,000 women, a surprising finding revealed that those whose daily food intake consisting of highly processed foods by 9 out of 10 faced a 49% higher risk of depression. However, when they switched to a diet with more fresh or raw foods like salads, the risk significantly decreased.
Prof Dr Keith Firestein at Oxford University confirms there is a strong link between processed foods, particularly artificial sweeteners found in soft drinks, and metabolic diseases. It raises the question: are those at a higher risk more inclined toward depression, which influences their food choices? However, the research team argued that this study has spanned several years, providing insights into volunteers’ eating habits long before the onset of depression appeared.
One less-known truth is that processed foods, especially fast foods and sugary snacks, increase the risk of attention deficit disorders. They not only worsen existing symptoms in children who already have these conditions, but also lead to irritability in healthy kids. The saying “You are what you eat” carries deeper meaning than you think.
The full version is available in the 5000s magazine issue 53. Subscribe Now.
