In an ever-evolving and fast-paced world mental health has now become an issue that many continue to deal with. However, as one looks to tide over issues like depression, one would seldom think that changing your diet can help. However, bodybuilding GOAT Arnold Schwarzenegger recently dropped some truth bombs on this very same topic.

In his daily newsletter, Arnold’s Pump Club, the seven-time Mr. Olympia champion shared evidence-based research that shows how impactful changing your diet routine is. Let’s find out what this popular eating style, which is linked to mood-boosting muscle, is.

Can following the Mediterranean diet have an effect on depression?

According to an edition of the Arnold’s Pump Club, “Recent research suggests that a Mediterranean-style diet can help reduce symptoms of depression.” Studies showed that this diet had a significant impact on the health of participants, and they started to recover from depression. He further gave the meta-analysis of the study.

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The study examined more than 1500 people with symptoms of depression ranging from moderate to severe. A meta-analysis from five different studies showcased trying out the different types of treatment from six to 48 weeks. Scientists believe that the Mediterranean diet can increase the gut bacteria that send chemical signals to your brain. The diet contributes to a rise in good bacteria and decreases bad bacteria, tipping the “balance of signals sent to the brain in a way that reduces depression.”

The Austrian Oak did throw some caution in the air. “Before we jump the gun, there’s not enough evidence to suggest a Mediterranean-style diet prevents or cures depression,” he explained. However, he is not against the Mediterranean diet, as he thinks anything that can provide a “behavioral advantage” in the fight against depression is beneficial. That being said, if you want to follow the Mediterranean diet, you should be primarily focusing on low-fat dairy, refined sugar, butter, meat, and a reasonable amount of poultry that includes whole grains, vegetables, fruit, legumes, nuts, olive oil, and seafood.

Earlier, the bodybuilding legend also shared a certain food habit that could actually have the opposite effect of the Mediterranean diet and warned against it.  

Potential risk of eating ultra-processed food

In an earlier edition of his newsletter, the Terminator revealed that consuming an ultra-processed food diet can increase the symptoms of anxiety and depression. “Ultra-processed foods are engineered to be more desirable by adding salt, sugar, and fat. They contain hydrogenated oils, chemical additives, artificial sweeteners, emulsifiers, and preservatives,” explained Arnie.

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The study shared by the Governator warned people who ate ultra-processed food regularly. He mentioned, “Another study of more than 11,000 people found that cognitive decline increased an additional 28 percent in people who consume more than 20 percent of their calories from ultra-processed foods.” A person following a healthy diet, however,  need not worry about these consequences.

As multiple editions of the Austrian Oak’s newsletter reveal, one’s diet often has an effect on their psychological well-being as well. As he suggests, would you opt for a Mediterranean diet? Let us know in the comments.

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