If you're feeling blue, you may want to lay off the chicken nuggets, fries and croissants. A recent study published in the Public Health Nutrition journal showed a strong correlation between fast food consumption and depression. In fact, those who ate fast foods like hot dogs and burgers, as well as baked goods, including doughnuts and croissants, were  %51 more likely to suffer from depression than their healthier-eating counterparts.

Apparently, eating even very small amounts of fast food increased the likelihood of depression. Those who ate more fast food were more likely to suffer from depression.

What can you do to help yourself?
If you're eating any sort of junk food or fast food on a regular basis, cut back or cut them out entirely - substituting fresher, whole foods.

Do Eat
Fruits
Vegetables
Nuts
Nut Butter (Peanut, Almond, Cashew)
Healthy Oils (olive, coconut, fish)
Dark Chocolate
Popcorn (homemade)
Healthy Meats & Poultry (grilled lean burgers, lean steaks, chicken, turkey, wild game)

Don't Eat
Bagged chips
Sugary Cereals
Pastries (croissants, cookies, doughnuts)
Hot Dogs
Fries
Milk Chocolate
"Healthy-Sounding" Junk Food

 

There is no doubt that junk food can make a person depressed.  I think we've all felt a little down after polishing off too much of a great-tasting-but-bad-for-you food. That said, depression is a big deal. The study cited acknowledges that junk food is but one contributor to mental well-being...and a pretty strong one at that. Always try to eat clean - your body will love you for it. But don't be shy about seeking help from a mental health professional if you're affected by a case of the blues that won't go away.

Are you connecting with me on Facebook yet? I'd love to see you there. I always welcome tips, tricks, questions or pieces of advice.

 

Plataforma SINC (2012, March 30). Link between fast food and depression confirmed.ScienceDaily. Retrieved March 31, 2012, from http://www.sciencedaily.com­/releases/2012/03/120330081352.htm