Dropping your habit of drinking sugary, caffeinated beverages like Coke and Pepsi could make you feel better, research suggests.
Cross-national epidemiologic studies have identified a possible link between sugar intake and rates of major depressive disorders. In addition, when researchers took a look at the diets of people with depression, they found that their sugar consumption was much higher than the general population.
It wasn't just sugar that seemed to be a culprit, however. One small cohort trial found that when people eliminated sugar and caffeine from their diet those with unexplained depression experienced improved moods within a week. When caffeine and sugar were reintroduced into their diet, their symptoms returned; but, placebo did not produce the same effect. Giving further credence to the caffeine-depression link, another study found that regular consumption of high levels of caffeine (>750 mg daily) appears to be associated with depression.
While it's not for certain that your depression will improve if you stop drinking soda, it certainly can't hurt and there are myriad other reasons why it's better for your health to avoid them, so why not give it a try?
Just can't live without your fizzy fix? Try mixing sparkling water with a little fruit juice. It's delicious and good for you too!
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DOES THIS STUDY APPLY TO DIET DRINKS AS WELL ?
I would like to know about the diet sodas too. I drink 3-4 (12 oz.) per day