Processed Foods Linked to Higher Depression Risk

• Consuming a diet rich in ultraprocessed foods may increase the risk of depression.
• Ultraprocessed foods contain high levels of salt, sugar, hydrogenated fats, and additives.
• A study involving over 31,000 women revealed that those who ate nine servings of ultraprocessed foods daily were 50% more likely to develop depression than those consuming four servings or less.
• Artificial sweeteners in these foods had a particularly negative impact on mental health.
• The research suggests a strong connection between diet and depression risk, although it cannot confirm causation.
• The disruption of gut microbiome and brain chemistry by ultraprocessed foods may contribute to this link.