Scientists working at the University of Warwick were able to prove that eating extra servings of vegetables and fruits can significantly increase the degree of happiness. This can be compared with the increase in material well-being from a successful job. The research results were published in one of the most respected American journals.
During the experiment, experts studied the psychological state and diet of 12000 people who were randomly selected. Each of them kept a diet diary. All subjects who took part in The Household, Income and Labor Dynamics in Australia Survey were required to indicate the foods consumed daily, as well as their amount.
As a result, scientists managed to collect information for 2007, 2009 and 2013. The data obtained were compared with the answers to the psychology test. Personal characteristics and details about income that affect the degree of happiness were also taken into account.
As it turned out, a large number of vegetables and fruits eaten every day has a positive effect on the degree of happiness. Experts say that this effect significantly exceeds the beneficial effects on health. The reason for this may be carotenoids, which are found in vegetables and fruits. They affect the redox processes in the body, increasing the level of hormones. According to experts, most people do not want to make changes in their diet, since a healthy lifestyle cannot bring instant results. At the same time, there is a fairly rapid improvement in the psychological state that can motivate people to make changes in nutrition.
The results of the study can be used in the health sector to promote healthy eating.