Researchers say regular soft drink consumption may alter gut microbes and increase depression risk, particularly among women.
A new study has found a strong connection between soft drink consumption and depression, especially among women. Researchers at Goethe University, Frankfurt, discovered that people who frequently drink sodas have a 16.7% higher risk of developing major depressive disorder (MDD).
The study, published in JAMA Psychiatry, linked the effect to changes in gut bacteria, particularly an increased presence of Eggerthella, which influenced both depression diagnosis and symptom severity.
Lead researcher Dr. Sharmili Edwin Thanarajah said the findings reinforce earlier evidence connecting sugary and artificially sweetened drinks to poor mental health.
“Physicians should consider asking patients about soft drink consumption as part of routine dietary assessment, particularly in those with or at risk of depression,” Thanarajah stated.
The study examined 932 participants, finding that women who drank more soda were 17% more likely to experience depression than those who drank less. No similar trend was observed in men.
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