Daily fruit juice may reduce depression, UK study finds

A recent British study has found that drinking a daily glass of natural fruit juice or a smoothie may help reduce depression levels as part of a healthier diet.

Researchers at Newcastle University conducted a trial involving 42 adults who consumed less than two servings of fruit and vegetables per day. Participants were randomly assigned to three groups.

The first group continued their usual diet and served as the control group, while the second group received support to increase their fruit and vegetable intake to five servings a day.

The third group received the same support, with the addition of a daily glass of fruit juice or a smoothie.

After four weeks, both the second and third groups increased their fruit and vegetable consumption. The juice and smoothie group showed a statistically significant reduction in depression scores compared to the control group, according to Science Daily, citing the British Journal of Nutrition.

Despite concerns about the sugar content in juice, the study found no negative effects on health indicators after four weeks of consuming juice or smoothies.

Researcher Courtney Neal, who conducted the study while at Newcastle University and is now at the University of Liverpool, noted that many people are aware of the benefits of eating five servings of fruit and vegetables daily, but struggle to achieve this goal.

She explained that simple, low-cost solutions, such as drinking a small glass of 100% fruit juice or a smoothie each day, can help people reach the five-a-day target, with potential benefits for mental health.