Fish consumption has been a topic of debate at ForMen these days, with studies showing mixed results about its benefits. But new research published in the Journal of Epidemiology & Community Health (JECH) involving 150,000 people provides the strongest evidence yet that fish may belong in the list of “good mood” foods that may stave off depression.
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The research found that people eating the most fish had a 17% reduction in depression risk compared with those eating the least amount of fish. The reduction was seen in both men and women, but the effect was slightly stronger in men.
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Scientists believe this occurs because fish may boost the activity of dopamine (a neurotransmitter that works with the brain’s rewards center) and seratonin (which plays a role in people’s sense of happiness and well-being). Another explanation is that the high quality of protein vitamins and minerals in fish may help protect against depression. Or, maybe it’s not the fish itself that’s staving off depressing, but just that people who eat a lot of fish tend to have more nutritious diets.
ForMen takeaway: It’s clear that further research needs to be done in order to determine the association between fish consumption and depression. But it’s interesting to note another study touting the benefits of eating fish.
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Curated Article from the Washington Post
Relevant Sources and Studies:
JECH
