A study published by the Japan Institute for Health Security (JIHS) indicates a correlation between the traditional Japanese diet and reduced depressive symptoms among employees.
The research, conducted on 12,499 employees from five major Japanese companies, primarily men with an average age of 42.5 years, found that those who consistently adhered to the traditional Japanese diet exhibited lower levels of depression. This diet typically includes rice, miso soup, fish, vegetables, seaweed, soy products, and green tea.
The findings suggest a potential link between dietary habits and mental well-being in the workplace. While further research is needed to establish a definitive causal relationship, the study highlights the potential for nutritional approaches in the prevention and management of depression. Future studies could explore the specific components of the Japanese diet that contribute to these positive effects and investigate the impact on diverse populations.