A longitudinal study appropriately titled “lettuce be happy” found that increased consumption of fruits and vegetables can improve mental well-being. While the role of a healthy diet in influencing physical health has been well established, the authors say, new research indicates that an increase in the frequency and quantity of fresh produce can make you happier and improve your mental health.
According FTA, the study from the universities of Leeds and York in the United Kingdom analyzed data from more than 40,000 people over a period of seven years. The researchers found that when there was an increase in the consumption of fruits and vegetables in the participants’ diets, they reported better moods.
They also noted that the participants did not have to eat a lot of products to get these benefits. In fact, a portion seemed to work. Eating just one extra serving of produce a day had the equivalent effect on mental well-being as walking eight extra days a month (for at least 10 minutes each time).
“It is well established that eating fruit and vegetables can benefit physical health,” said co-author Dr. Neel Ocean, from the University of Leeds. “While more work is needed to prove cause and effect, the results are clear: People who eat more fruits and vegetables report a higher level of mental well-being and life satisfaction than those who eat less.”
If your family is a picky eater, start with smaller portions at each meal, says TLC. and try these tips from the Academy of Culinary Nutrition to introduce more fruits and vegetables into your diet. Suggestions include toast with nut butter, berries and bananas. You can also add additional vegetables to omelettes or quiches, and add fruits and vegetables to smoothies. Use protein-rich hummus or homemade guacamole as a dipping station for fresh carrots, celery, and cucumbers.
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