Depression affects 121 million people worldwide and there is increasing evidence documenting the link between consuming fast food and experiencing depression. A growing body of research suggests that a diet rich in fast food, characterized by high levels of refined sugars, saturated fats, and processed ingredients, may contribute to an increased risk of developing depression. Fast food is often high in unhealthy trans fats, which have been linked to inflammation in the body. Chronic inflammation
A study published in the Public Health Nutrition journal shows that individuals that regularly consume commercially baked goods (pre-packaged cakes, croissants, doughnuts, etc.) and fast food (hamburgers, hotdogs and pizza) have a 51% higher likelihood of developing depression. Furthermore, the more fast-food individuals consumed, the greater the risk of depression.
Adjusting your eating habits to include healthier options that are less processed and more whole foods can help improve your mental well-being. A dietary pattern characterized by high intakes of fruits, vegetables whole grains, fish, olive oil, low fat dairy, antioxidants and one that has low intakes of animal foods is associated with a decreased risk of depression. Studies have also shown an improvement in mood with intake of saffron, turmeric, probiotics, flaxseeds, and walnuts. Source: https://intermountainhealthcare.org/blogs/fast-food-depression-link