Exercise Helps Combat Depression Caused by Junk Food, Study Finds
According to a recent animal study, people who consume more junk food can counteract its negative effects on mental health by engaging in cardio exercises such as running.
Researchers at University College Cork in Ireland identified specific metabolic pathways through which exercise counteracts the negative behavioral effects of consuming a Western-style diet.
- The research demonstrated that voluntary running exercise can mitigate depression-like behaviors induced by high-fat, high-sugar diets.
- These effects are associated with both circulating hormones and gut-derived metabolites.
"The findings provide crucial insights into how lifestyle interventions might be optimised to support mental health in an era of widespread ultra-processed food consumption,"
said Professor Yvonne Nolan from the university.
Author's summary: Exercise can help combat depression caused by junk food.