Study: Eating foods loaded with trans-fat may contribute to depression

By Staff Writer

Many teenagers who suffer from depression develop unhealthy behaviors as a result of their mental disorder. Some adolescents abuse alcohol or drugs, while others underachieve in school or have poor attendance because of their symptoms.

A new study reveals that a poor diet may contribute to depression in some individuals. Researchers from the University of Navarra and the University of Las Palmas de Gran Canaria discovered that the consumption of trans-fats and saturates increase one's risk of becoming depressed.

The team of researchers studied the lifestyles, diets and ailments of more than 12,000 volunteers over the course of six years. None of the participants exhibited symptoms of depression at the beginning of the study, but it was detected in more than 650 people by the end. Almudena Sanchez-Villegas, the lead author of the report, said that an elevated consumption of trans-fats - which are commonly found in industrially-produced pastries and fast food - increased the likelihood of developing depression by 48 percent.

Sanchez-Villegas added that fatty foods are prevalent in Western diets, such as those in the U.S. Fast-food chains, which serve foods that are loaded with trans-fat and saturated fat, are very popular among many American families.

Teens who suffer from depression may benefit from attending boarding schools, many of which provide healthy lifestyle choices for adolescents.