Study highlights the foods that may contribute to depression

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Dr Kirill Martemyanov, of the University of Florida, and his team of postdoctoral researchers are looking into new treatments for depression. "There are limited medications for people with depression," said Dr Martemyanov. "Most of them take weeks before they kick in, if they do at all. New and better options are really needed."

Researching how brain cell sensors receive and transmit information, Dr Martemyanov found the gene receptor GPR158 is linked to stress-induced depression.

For instance, if mice lacked GPR158, they proved surprisingly resilient to chronic stress.

GPR158 is "an amino acid receptor" that fits "perfectly" with glycine.

Moreover, the signalling molecule was not an activator in the cells, but an inhibitor when bound to glycine.

READ MORE: Emotional wellbeing 'important' for preventing heart disease - expert

Are you feeling depressed? (Image: Getty)

Co-author Dr Thibaut Laboute said: "Usually receptors like GPR158, known as G protein-coupled receptors, bind to G proteins.

"This receptor was binding an RGS protein, which is a protein that has the opposite effect of activation."

Dr Laboute said: "What makes me really excited about this discovery is that it may be important for people's lives. That's what gets me up in the morning."

Glycine-rich foods include red meat and dairy, so burgers and ice cream could contribute to low mood if it slows down brain signalling.

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Ice cream might contribute to low mood, according to research (Image: Getty)

A good supply of the right types of fats is needed to keep the brain healthy.

Examples include olive oil or rapeseed oil for cooking, nuts, seeds, and nut oil dressings on salads.

Trans-fats "seem to be harmful to brain structure and function" and can be found in processed meats, ready meals, pre-packed cakes and biscuits.

Wholegrains also contribute to better brain health, as do peas, beans, lentils, nuts, seeds, fruits, and vegetables, which are full of vitamins and minerals.

A healthy diet can help to protect the brain (Image: Getty)

"They also digest slowly, helping to provide a slow and steady glucose supply to your brain and body," the BDA added.

These foods are also rich in folate and zinc, which evidence suggests are "important in managing depression".

Protein contains tryptophan, which "may help with depression"; good sources include eggs, poultry, spinach, and pulses.

"Even slight dehydration may affect your mood," the BDA added, so make sure to keep hydrated throughout the day.

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