Researchers at the National University of Singapore (NUS) discovered that increasing fruit consumption in midlife can considerably lessen the likelihood of developing depressive symptoms later in life. NUS's Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine conducted the study, monitoring 13,738 people for 20 years, and found a substantial correlation between higher fruit intake and reduced rates of depression in older people.

The study, which is part of the Singapore Chinese Health Study, examined participants' food patterns from midlife (average age 51) until late life (average age 73). The study looked at 14 regularly consumed fruits in Singapore, including oranges, bananas, papayas, and watermelons. The findings, published in the Journal of Nutrition, Health, and Aging, revealed that people who ate more fruits had a lower risk of developing depressive symptoms in their later years.

Professor Koh Woon Puay, the study's principal investigator, stressed the relevance of fruit-eating to reducing age-related depression. "Our findings highlight the importance of fruit-eating as a preventative intervention against age-related depression. Participants who had at least three servings of fruits per day had a 21% lower risk of age-related depression compared to those who consumed less than one serving. Eating one to two servings of fruits after each meal can achieve this, says Professor Koh.

In terms of glycemic index, the study also found that the type of fruit made little difference, making it easier for diabetics to select fruits that do not dramatically spike blood sugar.

The researchers believe that the high levels of antioxidants and anti-inflammatory micronutrients found in fruits, such as vitamin C, carotenoids, and flavonoids, have an important impact. These substances reduce oxidative stress and curb inflammatory processes in the body, both linked to the onset of depression.

Interestingly, the study showed no significant link between vegetable consumption and the chance of experiencing depressive symptoms. This distinction emphasizes the specific benefits of fruits for preserving mental health.

With the world's population ageing quickly, the prevalence of depression among older people is becoming increasingly concerning. Depression at an older age can cause several symptoms, including loss of appetite, sleeplessness, impaired focus, and increased fatigue. The study's findings show that promoting fruit eating in middle adulthood (ages 40 to 65) may have long-term benefits for mental health in later years.

Following these promising findings, the NUS study team intends to look into other modifiable behavioural factors, such as sleep length, smoking, and nutritional issues, and how these affect the mental health of older persons.

This thorough study by NUS sheds light on the potential benefits of fruit-eating for reducing depressive symptoms later in life. Public health measures that encourage fruit consumption throughout midlife can improve the mental well-being of older people, resulting in a healthier aging population.