Fruits and vegetables important for physical and mental well-being

"It is well established that eating fruits and vegetables can be beneficial to physical health," said Dr. Neel Ocean, of the University of Leeds.

"Recently, new studies have suggested that this could also benefit psychological well-being. Our research builds on previous work in Australia and New Zealand by verifying this relationship with the help of a much larger sample of the UK. "

A collaboration of researchers from Leeds University and York University followed individuals over time. The study took into account other factors such as age, income, education, marital status, lifestyle, occupational status and health as well as the consumption of foods such as bread and dairy products.

The research team, including Dr. Peter Howley, of Leeds University and Jonathan Ensor, of York University, has highlighted a positive badociation between fruit and vegetable consumption and mental well-being declared by individuals.

Dr. Howley said, "There seems to be more and more evidence of the psychological benefits of fruits and vegetables. Despite this, data show that the vast majority of Britons still consume less than their daily consumption of five people.

"Encouraging better eating habits can not only be beneficial for long-term physical health, but can also improve mental well-being in the short term."

Dr. Ensor added, "This work is part of a larger project between our universities called" IKnowFood ". In addition to studying consumer behavior and well-being, IKnowFood explores how UK farmers and global food supply chain companies can become more resilient to growing market uncertainties, regulation and the environment. "

Dr. Ocean said, "Although additional efforts are needed to demonstrate the cause and effects, the results are clear: people who eat more fruits and vegetables report a level of mental well-being. and higher satisfaction in life than those who eat less.