Chinese scientists have warned that regularly adding extra salt to meals could significantly increase the risk of depression.
A study published in the journal Nutritional Neuroscience examined the dietary habits of over 15,000 adults. The research found that individuals who consumed the highest amounts of added salt were 26 percent more likely to experience depression.
The scientists did not specify exactly why salt may have this effect, but they suggested that excessive salt intake can over-activate the body’s biological system that regulates stress responses, potentially increasing the production of stress hormones.
The study also indicated that high salt consumption may trigger inflammation in the body, which could affect brain regions responsible for maintaining emotional balance and mood regulation.
Researchers from Guangdong Provincial People’s Hospital concluded that there is a clear and positive association between regularly consuming extra salt in meals and an increased risk of depression, highlighting an important link between diet and mental health.
