Japanese diet may help fight depression

A recent study has found lower rates of depressive symptoms in working-age adults who follow a Japanese-style diet of rice, miso soup, and fish. This is the first time a study of its kind has been conducted.

The Japanese diet may help fight depression. Photo: The Yomiuri Shimbun

In this study, the Japanese Institute for Health Security evaluated the benefits of a traditional Japanese diet, which includes foods such as soybeans, cooked vegetables, mushrooms, fish, seaweed, and green tea. The study also looked at a modified version of this diet, supplemented with fresh fruits, vegetables, and dairy products.

The study was based on reports from 12,499 employees working at five companies. Of these, 88% were male, with an average age of 42.5. In total, 30.9% of the participants had symptoms of depression. However, those who followed a typical Japanese diet were less likely to have these symptoms than those who did not follow this diet. The researchers tried to rule out other factors that could influence the results.

The institute also notes that certain foods in this diet may be linked to improved mental health. Seaweed, soy, and folic acid in green vegetables help support the release of neurotransmitters like serotonin and dopamine. In addition, fatty fish are rich in omega-3 fatty acids, which have anti-inflammatory effects, thereby contributing to a reduction in the risks associated with negative thinking and depression.

The Japan Institute for Health Security says more research is needed on the link between food and depression, but researchers hope that the evidence found in Japanese people could contribute to public health solutions in the workplace and in the field of depression prevention.

According to VNA

Source: https://baokhanhhoa.vn/doi-song/am-thuc/202508/che-do-an-kieu-nhat-co-the-giup-chong-tram-cam-1df78f7/