A new study has linked consumption of highly refined carbohydrates after menopause with increased risk for depression. The study results have provided further evidence that there exists a close relationship between diet and mental health.

The researchers have said that refined foods including soda, sweets and white rice help decline blood sugar levels, which raises the chances of mood changes and fatigue.

Findings of the new study have been published in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition. For the study, the researchers looked at data from more than 70,000 women. All these women participated in the National Institutes of Health’s women’s health initiative between 1994 and 1998.

The glycemic index tells about the rate at which carbohydrates are broken down and absorbed by the body. The researchers found that the women who increased their consumption of added sugars and refined grains scored higher on the glycemic index. Also, their risk of new-onset depression was high.

The depression risk was lower for the women who consumed diet comprising more dietary fiber, whole grains, vegetables and non-juice fruits. “This suggests that dietary interventions could serve as treatments and preventive measures for depression”, said James Gangswisch, an assistant professor of psychiatry at Columbia University Medical Center.

The researchers also said that a hormonal response is triggered by refined foods in the body to cause a decline in sugar levels.

A UK team also said last year that eating five servings of fruits and vegetables per day was good for mental health.