Diets high in saturated and trans fats raise the risks of depression

Spanish researchers may have found a new link between mental health problems and what foods are consumed in a diet. Research may show that diets high in trans and saturated fats may increase the chance a person will experience depression and depression-like feelings.

While trans and saturated fats have shown to be negative, Navarra and Las Palmas de Gran Canaria university researchers may have found a common food item to protect against mental disorder and illness — olive oil.

Over the course of six years, researchers analyzed more than 12,000 individuals. Each individual was analyzed in terms of diet, any existing mental or physical conditions, and lifestyle. Analysis took place before, during, and after the study.

To start the study, no cases of depression were explained. During the final examinations, however, 657 individuals explained to have symptoms of depression.

Researchers discovered that individuals eating diets high in trans fat and saturated fat were nearly 50 percent more likely to have depression when compared to individuals who consumed a healthy diet.

Diets high in unsaturated fats (oils, nuts, and seeds) seemed to protect participants from depression.

This study helps researchers look further into why certain areas of the world are more depressed — diets usually have higher trans and saturated fat content in these areas.