In Case You Haven't Heard.

Could a Mediterranean diet — rich in vegetables, fruits, nuts and fish —help lower a person's risk of depression? Research published Sept. 26 analyzed 41 studies on the topic and found a link between people's diet and their chances of developing depression, CNN reported. People who followed a strict Mediterranean diet had a 33 percent lower risk of being diagnosed with depression compared to people who were least likely to follow these eating habits. People whose diets were high in inflammatory substances, such as processed meats, trans fats and alcohol, were more likely to have depressive outcomes. Based on their analysis, researchers found that several factors causing damage to the brain — such as oxidative stress, insulin resistance and inflammation — can be controlled by a person's diet. These factors also show an association with depression, according to the study. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]