Five a day: The Positive Effect on Mental Wellbeing

Your five a day can have a positive impact on mental wellbeing, according to a recent study published in the BMJ Nutrition Prevention and Health journal.

A study of secondary school pupils found a link between emotional wellbeing and higher intake of fruit and vegetables during the course of the day.

The team behind the research analysed nearly 9,000 children in 50 primary and secondary schools across Norfolk. Those taking part would self-report their food intake and also evaluate their mental wellbeing by participating in wellbeing tests (the study factored in other factors that might have an impact, like home circumstances).

The results found a strong link between wellbeing and a nutritious diet, particularly in secondary age children.

“While the links between nutrition and physical health are well understood, until now, not much has been known about whether nutrition plays a part in children’s emotional wellbeing,” lead researcher Prof Ailsa Welch told the Guardian.

“We know that poor mental wellbeing is a major issue for young people and is likely to have long-term negative consequences.

“More than one in five secondary-school children and one in 10 primary children didn’t eat breakfast. And more than one in 10 secondary-school children didn’t eat lunch.”

The five-a-day target for fruit and vegetable intake is recommended by the NHS for all ages as part of a balanced diet.

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