Strong connection found between diet and mental wellbeing
02 Oct 2025
Australians who eat fewer than one serve of vegetables per day are 1.6 times more likely to experience psychological distress than those who eat five or more serves, according to a study of 45,000 people.
The research, conducted by the Translational Research Institute (TRI), also found that higher fruit intake is associated with lower rates of depression, anxiety, and stress. Women benefit from up to five or more serves of vegetables per day, while for men, the protective effect peaks at three to four serves per day.
Professor Selena Bartlett, a neuroscience expert at Queensland University of Technology and co-author of the study, described the findings as “extremely significant.”
“Correlation is not causation, and we need to be careful interpreting the results, but this study highlights how diet can influence psychological health,” Professor Bartlett said.
A second, smaller study of 129 people found that drinking seven or more sugary soft drinks per week increases the risk of depression almost fivefold. It also suggested that a high-fibre diet may slightly reduce anxiety, though researchers note these findings are preliminary.
Professor Bartlett emphasised that the studies do not claim vegetables are a cure for mental health issues, but they reinforce existing health advice promoting diets high in vegetables and low in sugar.
“These studies help us better understand how dietary choices can support mental wellbeing and overall health,” she said.
Source: Translational Research Institute / Queensland University of Technology
