A recent study led by Dr. Raaj Mehta from Harvard Medical School suggests that eating an orange a day might reduce the risk of depression by about 20%. The research, involving over 30,000 women, found that those who regularly consumed oranges and other citrus fruits had lower depression rates than those who did not. The study, published in the journal Microbiome, points out that citrus fruits help increase beneficial gut bacteria known for reducing inflammation and aiding the production of mood-related neurotransmitters like serotonin and dopamine.

The findings emphasize the gut’s role in mental health, often referred to as the “second brain.” The gut produces most of the body’s serotonin and dopamine, which are crucial for mood regulation. This research underlines how our diet, particularly the consumption of citrus fruits, can play a key role in maintaining mental health.

However, Dr. Mehta cautions against comparing citrus fruits directly with antidepressants, as the study focuses on prevention rather than treatment. The research primarily included white, middle-aged women, so results might vary widely across different groups. Nonetheless, the findings are encouraging and suggest that incorporating citrus fruits into our daily diet could be a simple way to help boost mental health.

SOURCE:

NY Post, March 9, 2025