According to a new study from Brazil, adults who followed a vegetarian diet were twice as likely to experience depression than meat eaters. While the study’s authors say that their findings shouldn’t be cause for alarm for people who follow a vegetarian diet, they suggest that further research is needed to determine why this link exists.
Suppose you’re considering going vegetarian or you already follow a vegetarian diet. In that case, it’s important to be aware of this potential risk so that you can take steps to reduce your chances of experiencing depression.
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Although a link was found between a vegetarian diet and depression, researchers suggest that this link exists independent of nutritional intake. The analysis published in the Journal of Affective Disorders took into account a wide range of nutritional factors, including total calorie intake, micronutrient intake, protein intake, and the level of food processing. This may suggest that the nutritional content of their diet might not cause higher rates of depression in those who eat a vegetarian diet.
Researchers used this new study to find what might explain the link between vegetarianism and depression. They set out to find if there is a non-nutritional mechanism that makes the connection or if the relationship is down to something else entirely.
During the study, researchers found that it was possible for people who were depressed to be more likely to become vegetarian rather than the other way around. Since symptoms of depression can include rumination of negative thoughts and feelings of guilt, they may be affected by the upsetting truth of slaughterhouses and factory farming. They may start to research the cruel treatment of animals in meat production and feel guilty for their part in the demand for cheap meat.
The study also suggests a lack of social involvement could cause the link between depression and a vegetarian diet. For example, vegetarians may find their relationships with others and their involvement in social activities change depending on how vegetarianism is viewed in their society. For example, Brazil is known for following a meat-heavy diet, and there are fewer vegetarians, whereas, in India or the U.K., vegetarianism is more of a social norm.
Addressing Mental Health
No matter the cause of depression, previous research has shown a link between depressive symptoms and cognitive decline. For this reason, it is vital to address depression and brain health.
Many factors can take a toll on the brain, affecting concentration, memory, and overall cognitive function. The Smart Pill can help counteract these effects through nine ingredients that help support, nourish, and maximize brain health and cognitive function. These include ginkgo biloba, huperzine A, bacopa extract, rosemary extract, and a B vitamin complex. This unique formula helps boost circulation, fight free radicals, and help to promote clear thinking.
Sarah began her interest in nutritional healing at an early age. After going through health problems and becoming frustrated with the conventional ways doctors wanted to treat her illness (which were not working), she took it upon herself to find alternative treatments. This led her to revolutionize her own diet to help her get healthier and tackle her health problems. She began treating her illness by living a more balanced lifestyle through healthy food choices, exercise and other alternative medicine such as meditation. This total positive lifestyle change led her to earn a diploma in Nutritional Therapy from Health Sciences Academy in London, England. Today, Sarah enjoys helping others by teaching healthy lifestyle changes through her personal consultations and with her regular contributions to the Doctors Health Press. Also, passionate about following her dreams in life, Sarah moved to France and lived in Paris for over 5 years where she earned a certification in beadwork and embroidery from Lesage (an atelier owned by Chanel). She then went on to be a familiar face sitting front row and reporting from Paris Fashion Week. Sarah continues to practice some of the cultural ways of life she learned while in Europe. They enjoy their food, and take the time to relax and enjoy many of life’s little moments. These are life lessons she is glad to have brought back home with her.
