Is your food causing you depression and anxiety? Study explains the link between them

The sugar addiction we feel when we indulge in our favourite sweet foods is real. The pleasure we get from such indulgences is real and so is the annoyance we feel when we feel hungry. A recent study says that what we eat and how we eat is related to the fluctuations of blood sugar in the body. This can further lead to mental complications like anxiety and depression.

Also read: What is your sugar craving telling you? Expert shares the information

Diet and Depression Risk

Mental health is complex. There are certain factors and complications that can trigger mental health conditions and how we feel at a given time. However, numerous tests have confirmed that the food we eat and the diet we consume have a significant biological impact on the way we feel.

Glycemic index and its effect on mood

The glycemic index is a system that detects the relationship between food and diet and its ability to trigger blood sugar levels in the body. It has been observed that foods with a high glycemic index can cause a sudden increase in blood sugar levels. This can further increase depression and anxiety, while foods with a low glycemic index can help control blood sugar levels and keep the mood happy and satisfied.

Also read: Do you crave sweets all the time? Nutritionist tells 5 reasons

how diet affects mood

The fluctuations in blood sugar after a meal are directly related to hormones. When we eat sugar or carbohydrates such as rice, pasta, potatoes or crackers, dopamine is released which can make us feel happy immediately. Therefore, eating something sweet or having dessert causes the body to experience a sugar rush. Dopamine is the body’s way of rewarding us for taking in nutrients that are essential for our survival.