Impact of Citrus Fruits on Mental Health

SOURCE www.foxnews.com
Eating citrus fruits like oranges may lower the risk of depression by 20% due to their positive impact on the gut microbiome. A study found a link between citrus consumption and increased abundance of a gut bacteria that produces 'feel-good' chemicals like serotonin and dopamine.

Key Points

  • Citrus fruits impact the gut microbiome, potentially improving mental health.
  • Complex carbohydrates in fruits and vegetables are better for gut health than refined carbohydrates.
  • More research is needed to explore the role of citrus in managing depression.

Pros

  • Eating citrus fruits may reduce the risk of depression by 20%.
  • Citrus consumption can lead to higher production of bacteria associated with 'feel-good' chemicals like serotonin and dopamine.

Cons

  • The study was conducted only among women, limiting its generalizability to men.
  • The effectiveness of citrus in preventing depression compared to traditional antidepressants is unclear.