Indulging in a daily 30g serving of nuts could be your key to reducing the risk of depression by a significant 17%, according to recent research from the University of Castilla-La Mancha in Spain. Led by scientist Bruno Bizzozero-Peroni and published in the Clinical Nutrition journal, this study suggests that a mere handful of nuts each day may have a positive impact on mental health.

The comprehensive research involved over 13,500 UK participants aged 37 to 73, all initially free from depression. Their nut consumption habits were closely observed, with depression defined as either a self-reported diagnosis from a doctor or psychiatrist or the prescription of anti-depressants. The results, spanning from 2007 to 2020, revealed that only 8% of participants developed depression.

In Mr Bizzozero-Peroni's words, "Our findings showcase yet another advantage of incorporating nuts into your diet, revealing a remarkable 17% decrease in depression associated with regular nut consumption. This underscores the potential of nut consumption as a healthy dietary habit to prevent depression in individuals without other known risk factors, such as obesity, unhealthy lifestyle behaviors, loneliness, and medical conditions."

The study embraced a variety of nuts, including salted, unsalted, and roasted varieties. For those curious about quantities, a daily 30g serving of nuts is approximately equivalent to 40 peanuts, 10 Brazil nuts, 20 almonds, 15 cashews, or 30 pistachio kernels. For further details, visit www.clinicalnutritionjournal.com.

Consider making nuts a delightful part of your daily routine to nourish not just your body but your mental well-being too.