Can Eating Citrus Prevent Depression?

A surprising new study shows that a small, but delicious, change in diet can dramatically reduce the risk of depression.

This massive study found that, compared to people who eat the least citrus, those who eat the most had a significant 22% lower risk of depression. And you don’t have to work hard to get this benefit: you only need to eat about one medium orange a day.

The study found something more, though. Eating citrus increased a gut probiotic called Faecalibacterium prausnitzii. It then found that higher levels of Faecalibacterium prausnitzii are significantly associated with lower risk of depression. These three results suggest that citrus fruits may prevent depression by increasing Faecalibacterium prausnitzii.

There has been an explosion of research lately identifying a microbiota-gut-brain axis that allows the microbiota in your gut to communicate with the cognitive and emotional centers of your brain. This intriguing new study suggests that simply eating one orange or grapefruit a day can alter the gut microbiota enough to significantly reduce your risk of depression.

Microbiome. 2024;12,237.

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For much more on preventing and treating depression, see our book The Family Naturopathic Encyclopedia.

For comprehensive natural help with your mental health, including depression, make an appointment to see Linda Woolven now. Linda’s clinic is now open for in person and virtual appointments.

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