Potassium-rich diet may lower depression risk, new study finds

Potassium-rich diet linked to lower depression risk

Depression affects around 5% of the world’s adult population, according to the World Health Organization (WHO). While treatments such as medications and therapy remain essential, new research suggests that a potassium-rich diet may also help reduce depression risk.

A study published in Nutrients analyzed health data from more than 22,000 participants in South Korea and the United States. Researchers focused on seven essential minerals — potassium, zinc, sodium, magnesium, calcium, phosphorus, and iron — to evaluate their potential link with depression.

Lead researcher Min-Sun Kim, from Kyung Hee University, explained that dietary factors are increasingly recognized as important contributors to mental health. “Our findings show that individuals with higher potassium intake had a significantly lower risk of depression,” Kim noted.

The study highlighted three minerals in particular — potassium, zinc, and sodium — as showing consistent protective effects. Potassium-rich foods such as bananas, spinach, sweet potatoes, beans, and avocados may therefore play a supportive role in maintaining mental well-being.

While the results are promising, experts caution that diet alone cannot replace medical treatment for depression. Instead, a balanced diet should be seen as a preventive and complementary strategy alongside professional care.

The researchers concluded that improving mineral intake through dietary guidance could become a cost-effective public health approach to reduce the burden of depression worldwide.

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