Although the microbiota is not the sole cause of mental disorders, its impact on mental health is evident. Gut bacteria produce neurotransmitters such as serotonin, dopamine, and norepinephrine, which directly influence functions such as mood, memory, and energy. Poor gut health can lead to increased intestinal permeability, especially during times of stress, increasing the risk of inflammation and impacting mental health.
The role of diet in preventing depression
The modern Western diet, rich in ultra-processed products, is associated with an increased risk of depression. These foods often contain additives, hidden sugars, and saturated fats, increasing the risk of depression by about a third. It is estimated that 400,000 to 2.6 million cases of depression could be linked to an inflammatory diet in France.
Conversely, the Mediterranean diet, rich in fruits, vegetables, legumes, and vegetable oils such as olive oil, reduces the risk of depression by a third. More specifically, vegetable consumption reduces this risk by 9% and fruit consumption by 15%. These data come from longitudinal studies that establish a causal link between diet and the risk of depression, independent of the decrease in culinary motivation that a depressive state can cause.
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