Does ice cream make you happy? In a cross-sectional analysis, researchers investigated the potential connection between consuming high-calorie foods and adverse mental health symptoms. Ultra-processed foods (UPFs), often characterized by their high additives, preservatives, and sugars, have become increasingly prevalent in modern diets. Some UPFs are popular foods such as ice cream, soda, and instant soup. These often are quick access, and generally cheaper diet options. US NIH did a nutrition survey of over 10,000 non-addicted representative samples of US adults 18 years and older, 2007-2012. Results? Individuals who reported higher consumption of UPFs were likelier to experience adverse mental health symptoms of mild depression, ‘mentally unhealthy days,’ and ‘anxious days.’ They reported fewer days when they had no ‘mentally unhealthy or anxious days.’ Advertisers persuade us to buy these unhealthy products that we may want due to our mental health issues. Thus, we eat to try to give ourselves comfort from anxiety, depression, and life’s stresses. If you are consuming unhealthy foods or drinks and not meeting your expectations, consult a mental health professional… and ask them to help you be a productive, healthy, goal-oriented person! Reference: Hecht, E., Rabil, A., Martinez Steele, E., Abrams, G., Ware, D., Landy, D., & Hennekens, C. (2022). Cross-sectional examination of ultra-processed food consumption and adverse mental health symptoms. Public Health Nutrition, 25(11), 3225-3234. doi:10.1017/S1368980022001586.

Written by Jarret Bain B.S.