Study finds cutting ultra-processed foods reduces depression symptoms
Researchers at UC San Francisco published a small crossover pilot in JAMA Psychiatry testing whether sharply reducing ultra-processed foods affects mood. Twenty adults with depression, high BMI and metabolic issues ate their usual diet for four weeks and a low ultra-processed diet for four weeks; during the healthier period they cut ultra-processed intake by more than 85% and scores on three depression measures improved by moderate to large amounts while anxiety showed modest improvement. Investigators cite gut-brain links and inflammation as possible pathways, but the trial is too small to prove causation; a Phase II trial is planned for enrollment in 2028.
Cutting ultra-processed foods correlated with improved depression scores in a small trial
Context
Researchers tested whether diet can help depression by reducing ultra-processed foods. The pilot found mood improvements but had only 20 participants. A larger Phase II trial is planned to begin enrollment in 2028.
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