Since unmanaged and long-term mental health can lead to a wide range of health issues, it is crucial to look for ways to prevent and alleviate stress. A recent study has found that having a diet rich in fruit and vegetables is associated with less stress. The dietary intake of 8689 participants aged ≥25 years was assessed using a Food Frequency Questionnaire in 1999–2000. Perceived stress was assessed using a validated Perceived Stress Questionnaire whereas serum carotenoids were measured in a subset of participants (n = 1,187) using high-performance liquid chromatography. Multivariable-adjusted linear and logistic regression were performed to investigate the associations between fruits and vegetables (FV) intake and perceived stress. The result suggested that high consumption of FV was associated with lower perceived stress. To understand which kind of FV provides the most benefits for mental health specifically, more research are encouraged.
Keywords: Stress, Stress management, Dietary, Fruit and vegetables
Reference
Simone Radavelli-Bagatini, et al. Fruit and vegetable intake is inversely associated with perceived stress across the adult lifespan. Clinical Nutrition, 2021;40:286.