A 2023 study from the Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health found that people who consume nine or more servings of ultra-processed foods a day have a 50 per cent higher risk of developing depression than those who eat four or fewer daily servings.
Researchers have long been highlighting the importance of the gut-brain connection — the idea that the gut and brain constantly communicate through an intricate network of nerves and chemical signals.
The gut microbiome, the collection of bacteria, viruses and fungi in our digestive system, produces chemicals that can influence brain function and affect mood
Artificial sweeteners and artificially sweetened beverages, in particular, were associated with an increased risk of depression, with researchers suggesting that these chemicals spur certain transmissions in the brain that can lead to depression.
Besides affecting your quality of life and relationships, depression can raise the risk of heart disease, diabetes, stroke, dementia, Alzheimer’s disease, anxiety disorders and substance abuse.
So - the key takeaway is, feed your gut bugs healthy foods, fibre, colourful fruits and vegetables, healthy protein in order for your gut to support your brain function for a healthier and happier life.
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