I knew eating a Mediterranean diet – loaded with olive oil, fruits, vegetables, legumes, nuts, and fish – could be good for your heart. Now comes word it could be good for your mental health, too.
A new study published in the Archives of General Psychiatry suggests you could cut your risk of depression “significantly” by following a Mediterranean-style diet.
I took a look at the study, from the University of Navarra in Spain. It followed 10,094 healthy Spaniards over 4-1/2 years. They were depression-free at the start.
Those who said they ate a Mediterranean diet from the beginning were more than 30 percent less likely to develop depression versus those who didn’t stay with the diet.
The research adds a new dimension to the health benefits of a Mediterranean diet. It’s already linked to lowering the risk of heart disease, stroke, Type 2 diabetes and cancer. Like depression, all are tied to increased levels of inflammation throughout the body.
According to one news story I read about the latest findings, the researchers believe the fatty acids in olive oil could be one factor in lower rates of depression. But the researchers also concluded the overall diet may be more important than singling out individual foods.
If you don’t remember the ins and outs of the Mediterranean food pyramid, here’s a primer. At the top are grains, fresh fruits and vegetables, olive oil, cheeses, yogurt, nuts, and legumes. You eat those on a daily basis. And don’t forget: You can also pour yourself a glass or two of red wine.
Bon appétit,
Claude S. Weiller
Vice President of Sales & Marketing
California Olive Ranch
Hi Claude,
My doctor is all for the Mediterranean diet.
I love your articles! Gregg Kelley is my step-son & introduced us (Duncan Kelley is my husband) to your olive oil. We travel alot & have tasted oil everywhere. California Olive Ranch has the best!
I have created a curry recipe — very simple. Where do I submit this recipe. It uses your EVOO?
I plan to pass this recipe on to Gregg.
Best regards–Anita