Researchers report that adding a daily glass of 100% fruit juice or a smoothie may reduce depression symptoms. The findings come from a short study testing how increasing fruit and vegetable intake affects mood.
The research involves 42 UK adults who initially ate no more than two portions of plant-based foods per day. Participants follow different targets for four weeks: a control group maintains their usual diet, a “whole foods” group eats five portions of fruits and vegetables daily, and a “mixed” group also aims for five portions but can replace one portion with a glass of juice or a smoothie. Depression and anxiety are measured using standardized questionnaires.
Across outlets, the main emphasis is on a measurable improvement in depression scores for participants who include fruit-based drinks as part of a broader increase in plant-based intake. One outlet describes the approach as a simple and cost-effective way to add fruits and vegetables. Another notes that anxiety does not significantly change, while depression levels decrease in the group consuming juice or smoothies.
