(Depression) The more you like 'this food', the higher your risk of depression by 31%.

A love of candy and sweets isn't just bad for your teeth. Research has shown that the more you consume them, the higher your risk of developing depression and other conditions.

A study published in the Journal of Translational Medicine found that people who prefer sweet foods are at a higher risk of developing depression, diabetes, and vascular problems such as stroke.

 

Researchers at the University of Surrey in the UK gathered information on the food preferences of 180,000 participants in the UK Biobank and used artificial intelligence to group them into three general profiles: health-conscious people (who prefer fruit and vegetables over animal products and sweets), omnivores (who like most foods, including meat, fish, and some vegetables, as well as sweets and desserts), and sweet-toothed people (who prefer sweet foods and sugary drinks and are less interested in healthy options like fruit and vegetables).

The researchers examined UK Biobank data on blood samples measuring 2,923 proteins and 168 metabolites, analyzing how these levels varied across the groups. Proteins are the body's workhorses, helping to fight infection, contract muscles, and even think. Metabolites are small molecules produced during digestion and other chemical processes in the body, and can tell a lot about how well the body is functioning. By comparing these blood-based proteins and metabolites, the researchers were able to gain a clearer picture of biological differences between the groups.

 

The study found that the sweet-loving group was 31% more likely to suffer from depression. Furthermore, compared to the other two groups, the sweet-loving group also had a higher rate of diabetes and vascular heart disease.

 

The sweet-loving group had higher levels of C-reactive protein, a marker of inflammation. Blood tests also showed higher glucose levels and a poor lipid profile, which are strong warning signs of diabetes and heart disease.

Conversely, the health-conscious group consumed more dietary fiber and had a lower risk of heart failure, chronic kidney disease, and stroke, while the omnivorous group had an intermediate health risk.

 

"Food preferences and dislikes appear to be directly related to health. If your favorite foods are cakes, cookies, or sugary drinks, this could have a negative impact on your health," said study author Professor Nopa Geifman. "The results demonstrate the impact of food preferences on long-term health," he added. "This study highlights the importance of moderating sugar intake to improve health outcomes."

 

 

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People who prefer sweet foods

Depression, diabetes, stroke, etc.

You are at higher risk for vascular problems.

 

But even when I'm stressed, I eat sweets

It's a bit tempting

 

It's closely related to blood vessels.