Baku:Researchers in Australia have found that increased fruit consumption among teenagers is associated with a reduced risk of depression and anxiety symptoms. This finding comes from a study involving 6,537 adolescents across 71 secondary schools in New South Wales, Queensland, and Western Australia, tracked over four years starting at an average age of 12.5 years.

According to Azerbaijan State News Agency, the study concluded that consuming an additional serving of fruit each day correlated with a 13 percent reduction in depression symptoms and a 7 percent decrease in anxiety symptoms. Participants reported an average daily fruit intake ranging from two to 2.5 servings.

Conversely, a higher intake of sugar-sweetened beverages, such as soft drinks, cordials, and sports drinks, was linked to an elevated risk of depression and anxiety. This association was present in both boys and girls, with a stronger correlation observed among boys for anxiety.

The study took into account various factors including physical activity, age, sex, and socioeconomic status, and excluded adolescents who already exhibited elevated depression or anxiety symptoms at the outset. The researchers emphasized the need for improved access to nutritious foods and initiatives to reduce the consumption of sugary drinks among young people.