Lead investigator Dr. Lenore Arab explained, “According to the CDC, one out of every six adults will have depression at some time in their life. It is important to find low-cost interventions, such as dietary changes, that are easy to implement and may help reduce the incidence of depression. Walnuts have previously been investigated for their role in cardiovascular and cognitive health, and now we see an association with depression symptoms – providing another reason to include them in a healthy eating plan.”
The researchers reviewed data collected as part of the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey, where over 26,000 American adults were asked about their dietary intake throughout one to two days, along with their depressive symptoms. The study findings uncovered that those who consumed walnuts had a more significant interest in activities, higher energy levels, less hopelessness, better concentration, and greater optimism.
Depression scores were seen to be lower among those who consumed nuts, specifically walnuts, compared to individuals who did not consume nuts. The results remained even after factoring in other depression factors. This association between nut consumption and reduced depressive symptoms was seen in both men and women, but seemed to offer more significant improvements in women. The average walnut consumption was 24 grams of walnuts a day.
Walnuts have a unique fatty acid profile in comparison to other nuts, which is why they could offer more significant benefits than other nuts.
This study only looked at individuals eating habits over a couple of days. To confirm findings and have a greater understanding of walnut consumption and depression, longer studies will need to be conducted.
Also read: