Mediterranean Diet Against Depression: What to Eat and What to Avoid

The Mediterranean Diet may protect from depression according to new research.
New research from University College London shows that a Mediterranean Diet may be a factor in the prevention of depression. The researchers reviewed 41 studies and found a robust association between both higher adherence to a Mediterranean diet and lower adherence to a pro-inflammatory diet and a lower risk of depression. In other words, following a Mediterranean diet that is rich anti-inflammatory foods such as fruit and vegetables while avoiding pro-inflammatory foods such as processed meat is associated with a lower risk of depression.

How can food affect our mood?

There are several complex ways in which food can play a role in depression and a few factors have been proposed. Researchers note that our diet can cause damage to our brain through oxidative stress, insulin resistance and inflammation. Protection from oxidative stress through food can reduce damage to our neurons. The researchers add that there is also emerging evidence that shows that the relationship between the gut and brain plays a key role in mental health and that this axis is modulated by gastrointestinal bacteria, which can be modified by our diet.

Top 10 Mediterranean Anti-inflammatory Foods

These foods have been shown to reduce the risk of inflammation. The plant sourced foods are rich in antioxidants and polyphenols, while the omega-3 fatty acids in fatty fish also fight inflammation.

1. Extra Virgin Olive Oil

Aim for at least 3 tablespoons a day. Use it in cooking, on salads and baking

2. Spinach and Greens

Use it I salads, traditional savory pies or lightly boiled served with olive oil and lemon.

3. Sardines

Consume canned or fresh

4. Oranges

Prefer eating the whole fruit rather than the juice.

5. Walnuts

have them as a snack or with yogurt, in salads, in cereals.

6. Tomatoes

Use fresh when in season or puree. Canned is ok.

7. Cauliflower

Enjoy it roasted or stewed

8. Lentils

As a soup or in salads

9. Garlic

Add it in your cooking and in salad dressings

10. Oregano

Has one of the highest antioxidant activity among herbs. Add it to salads, vegetables and meat.

Foods to avoid: Pro-inflammatory foods

It is not enough to just eat anti-inflammatory foods but to avoid foods that cause inflammation. These include:

• Refined carbohydrates such as white bread, cookies, crackers, chips, cereal bars, ready made cakes.
• Soft drinks/soda
• Vegetable and seed oils such as soy, sunflower, corn, cottonseed, safflower (not olive oil, olive is a fruit). Margarines.
• Processed meats including cold cuts, luncheon meats, bacon.

Photo by Elena Paravantes © All Rights Reserved