A Daily Glass of Fruit Juice May Help Lower Depression Scores
A Daily Glass of Fruit Juice May Help Lower Depression Scores
A daily glass of 100% fruit juice or a smoothie may help support mental well-being, according to research from Newcastle University in the UK. The study, published in the British Journal of Nutrition, found that adults who consumed fruit juice and smoothies alongside whole fruits and vegetables had lower depression scores compared to those who only ate whole fruits and vegetables.
Researchers conducted a randomized controlled trial involving 42 participants who typically ate relatively little fruit and vegetables. The participants were randomly assigned to one of three groups: a control group that continued eating their usual diet, a group that received support to increase their fruit and vegetable consumption to 5-a-day using whole fruits and vegetables only, and a group that received the same support but also consumed one glass of fruit juice or a smoothie each day.
After four weeks, both intervention groups increased their daily fiber intake by an estimated 8-10 g, indicating that including juice did not stop participants from adding other fiber-rich fruits and vegetables to their diets. The fruit juice and smoothie group scored statistically significantly lower for depression markers than the control group, with scores 2.52 points lower on a 27-point scale.
Dr. Courtney Neal, the lead researcher, said: ‘While most people know eating 5-a-day can be good for your health, many people struggle to. Our trial showed that when people with low fruit and vegetable intake were provided with targeted financial and educational support to address common barriers to eating 5-a-day, they were able to make meaningful changes to their diet.’
The study’s findings suggest that drinking a daily glass of fruit juice or a smoothie could be a simple and cost-effective way to support mental well-being. However, it is essential to note that the study had a small sample size and was conducted over a short period. Further research is needed to confirm these findings and explore the potential benefits of fruit juice and smoothies for mental health.
According to the UK’s 5-a-day guidance, adults should aim to eat at least five portions of a variety of fruits and vegetables every day. However, many people struggle to meet this target due to various barriers, including the cost of fresh produce and lack of time to prepare meals. The study’s findings suggest that incorporating fruit juice and smoothies into one’s diet could be a practical solution to support mental well-being and help people reach their 5-a-day target.
Dr. Oliver Shannon, a senior author of the study, said: ‘Given the ongoing cost of living pressures in the UK, the price of fresh produce is often a barrier for people trying to eat more fruit and vegetables. Our study shows that drinking a daily glass of fruit juice or a smoothie could be part of the solution and help people reach 5-a-day fruit and vegetable targets.’
The study’s findings are particularly relevant in the context of the UK’s mental health crisis. According to the NHS, one in four people will experience a mental health problem each year, and depression is one of the most common conditions. The study’s findings suggest that simple dietary changes, such as incorporating fruit juice and smoothies into one’s diet, could play a role in supporting mental well-being and reducing the risk of depression.
While the study’s findings are promising, it is essential to note that fruit juice and smoothies should not be seen as a replacement for whole fruits and vegetables. A balanced diet that includes a variety of whole foods is essential for maintaining good health and preventing chronic diseases. However, the study’s findings suggest that incorporating fruit juice and smoothies into one’s diet could be a useful addition to a healthy diet and may have benefits for mental well-being.
The study’s authors suggest that further research is needed to confirm the findings and explore the potential benefits of fruit juice and smoothies for mental health. They also recommend that policymakers and health professionals consider the potential benefits of fruit juice and smoothies in supporting mental well-being and reducing the risk of depression.
