Daily Glass of 100% Fruit Juice May Support Mental Health, Study Finds

ISLAMABAD: A daily glass of 100% pure fruit juice may help support mental health and potentially reduce symptoms associated with depression, according to a study conducted in the United Kingdom.

Depression is a complex mental health condition that can cause persistent sadness, helplessness and changes in a person’s overall well-being. Researchers note that its effects can extend beyond mental health and also affect physical health.

A study by Newcastle University examined whether simple dietary changes could have a positive impact on mental well-being.

The clinical trial involved people who consumed very small amounts of fruits and vegetables. Some participants were advised to consume a glass of fruit juice or a smoothie every day.

After four weeks, participants in both groups reported increased consumption of fruits and vegetables. However, those who consumed fruit juice showed lower depression scores compared with the other group.

Researchers said the findings add to evidence that simple and practical dietary changes may benefit mental health.

They noted that while the health benefits of regularly consuming fruits and vegetables are widely recognized, many people find it difficult to incorporate sufficient quantities into their daily diets.

According to the researchers, the trial suggests that encouraging people who consume few fruits and vegetables to incorporate fruit juice into their routine could potentially support mental well-being. However, they emphasized that the findings are encouraging rather than proof that fruit juice can prevent or treat depression.

Participants’ changes in mood were assessed through questionnaires, with the fruit-juice group recording lower depression scores than the comparison group.

The researchers said further studies are needed, particularly involving people who are experiencing diagnosed mental health conditions, to better understand the potential relationship between fruit consumption, juice and depression.

The findings were published in the British Journal of Nutrition.