A study reveals that British adults who regularly add salt to their meals are nearly 40% more likely to develop anxiety and depression, highlighting concerns about dietary habits.
A recent study indicates a potential link between the consumption of added salt and an increased risk of depression and anxiety among British adults. Conducted by researchers from Xinjiang Medical University in China, the study analysed data from approximately 439,412 individuals across the UK.
The findings, published in the Journal of Affective Disorders, revealed that individuals who regularly added salt to their meals were nearly 40 per cent more likely to develop anxiety and depression compared to those who either never added salt or did so rarely. For those who added salt occasionally, the research indicated a more modest increase in risk, estimated at between 5 to 8 per cent.
The study also delved into possible explanations for the correlation, suggesting that the intake of salt could accelerate biological ageing, which in turn might raise the risks of mental health issues. Additionally, it was noted that salt might influence the levels of mood-regulating hormones, such as serotonin and dopamine, potentially further contributing to mental health problems.
The research is being hailed as significant, as it is reportedly the first to document the positive additive effects on the risk of depression and anxiety arising specifically from the practice of adding salt to food. The results have drawn considerable attention, highlighting an area of dietary habits that may warrant further investigation as researchers continue to explore the intricate connections between nutrition and mental health.
Source: Noah Wire Services
- https://studyfinds.org/salty-food-depression-sodium/ – This article supports the study’s findings on the potential link between high-salt diets and depression-like behaviors. It explains how high-salt diets can lead to the production of IL-17A, which is associated with depression symptoms.
- https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/high-salt-diets-may-contribute-to-depression-mouse-study-shows-how – This article discusses how high-salt diets can contribute to depression in mice by increasing the production of the cytokine IL-17A. It highlights the need for further research on the impact of salt intake on human mental health.
- https://academic.oup.com/chemse/article/doi/10.1093/chemse/bjad038/7279071 – This study indicates a positive correlation between liking salty foods and higher scores for depression, anxiety, and stress, supporting the idea that dietary preferences can be linked to mental health outcomes.
- https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/mental-health – This World Health Organization fact sheet provides context on the prevalence of depression globally, supporting the need for further research into dietary influences like salt consumption.
- https://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/nutrition-and-healthy-eating/expert-answers/sodium/faq-20461014 – This resource discusses the health impacts of excessive sodium consumption, which includes effects on mood-regulating hormones that might contribute to anxiety and depression.
Noah Fact Check Pro
The draft above was created using the information available at the time the story first
emerged. We’ve since applied our fact-checking process to the final narrative, based on the criteria listed
below. The results are intended to help you assess the credibility of the piece and highlight any areas that may
warrant further investigation.
Freshness check
Score:
8
Notes:
The study appears recent, but without specific dates or updates from the researchers, it is slightly difficult to ascertain if this is breaking news or a summary of existing research.
Quotes check
Score:
0
Notes:
There are no direct quotes in the narrative that can be verified as the first source.
Source reliability
Score:
7
Notes:
The narrative originates from the Daily Mail, a well-known but sometimes controversial source. However, the study is linked to Xinjiang Medical University and published in the Journal of Affective Disorders, both of which are reputable academic sources.
Plausability check
Score:
9
Notes:
The claim is plausible given the context of nutritional impacts on mental health. The narrative discusses a scientific study conducted by a university, which adds credibility to the findings.
Overall assessment
Verdict (FAIL, OPEN, PASS): PASS
Confidence (LOW, MEDIUM, HIGH): MEDIUM
Summary:
The narrative appears to be based on recent scientific research with plausible findings, but lacks direct quotes for verification. The source, while generally reputable, does not guarantee absolute accuracy due to the nature of the publication.
