Study: Artificially sweetened foods linked to depression in women

A new study published Wednesday in the journal JAMA Network Open examined the diets of nearly 32,000 middle-aged women.

News 12 Staff

Sep 20, 2023, 6:47 PM

Updated 389 days ago

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Ultra processed foods like frozen pizza, French fries and cookies could be linked to depression in women.
A new study published Wednesday in the journal JAMA Network Open examined the diets of nearly 32,000 middle-aged women. The study did not include any men, so the results cannot be generalized.
When the researchers looked at specific ultra processed foods and drinks, also known as UPFs, only those made with artificial sweeteners were associated with an increased risk of depression.
The study's co-author says there's a possibility those with chronic depression can worsen their condition through a poor diet.
Experts outside of the study say it’s also possible that depression and a higher intake of “junk” and “comfort” foods “feed on each other."