A study from Spain, published in 2009 in the Archive of General Psychiatry, suggest that a so-called Mediterranean diet, rich in vegetables and fruits, nuts, olive oil and fish, may prevent depression.

According to a study with over 10.000 people, a Spanish research team from the University of Las Palmas de Gran Canaria and the University of Navarra, Pamplona, led by Almudena Sanchez-Villegas, found out, that individuals who followed this special kind of diet where 30 percent less likely to suffer from depression, compared to people who only had low Mediterranean diet scores.

Sanchez-Villegas suggests that some components of the Mediterranean Diet may decrease the chances of developing depression by improving blood vessel function, reducing the risk for heart disease and protecting cells against ageing.

For memory: The Mediterranean diet is rich in cereals, wine, fruits, nuts, and vegetables, fish, garlic and olive oil. On the other hand, it’s quit low in dairy, meat, and it’s free from junk food and fat. Several studies have linked this diet and a moderate consumption of wine to a longer life, less heart disease, and protection against certain cancers.