Handful Of Nuts A Day Linked To Lower Depression Risk

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Lahore: A new study shows that eating a handful of nuts daily is linked to a 17 per cent lower risk of depression. Nuts contain phytochemicals that could be associated with anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties which are linked to improved mental health.

According to a recent study published in the journal Clinical Nutrition, middle-aged and older adults who ate 30 grams of nuts — almonds, walnuts, cashews, hazelnuts, pistachios, and Brazil nuts — per day had a decreased likelihood of taking antidepressants or developing depression.

Mayo Hospital Former Medical Superintendent Dr Iftikhar stressed the need for raising awareness among the public about effective ways to address social and psychological issues.

Individuals facing a multitude of socioeconomic factors may experience both support and obstacles to their recovery. These complexities add intricacy to the evaluation of the effectiveness of services, treatments and support systems, Dr Iftikhar added.

Fountain House Medical Services Director Brig (retd) Dr Sultan Abid reminded that there are viable alternatives to avoid depression and by taking action, we could foster hope and bolster efforts to remain happy.

Moreover, recent research highlights depression as a significant global health concern, leading to more mental complexities.

The majority of depression patients are associated with psychiatric illnesses, said Dr Iftikhar, adding that depression, substance use disorders and psychosis are the most prominent risk factors.

Nonetheless, anxiety, personality, eating, and trauma-related disorders, along with organic mental disorders, also contribute to this grave issue.

The superintendent added that urgent research into risk factors among individuals with depression or mental disorders is imperative in our efforts to predict and prevent deaths related to them.