Photo Credit: Getty Images There may be something in the
Mediterranean lifestyle that helps prevent depression, and may
even transcend nutrients. To be sure, nutrients matter. The
latest study, of more than 10,000 Spaniards, found that those
who most closely adhere to their traditional Mediterranean diet
have a 30 percent lower risk of developing depression, compared
to those who don't follow the diet. While the researchers
emphasize that the study doesn't show cause and effect, they
point out that: - The abundance of antioxidant-rich and anti-
inflammatory compounds in fruits, vegetables, legumes, nuts and
other components help protect the endothelium, the lining of
blood vessels. A healthy endothelium is associated not only with
less heart disease but also possibly with less depression. -
Olive oil may improve the body's ability to use serotonin, the
brain transmitter that is often found to be low in depression,
and which antidepressants such as Prozac boost. - Omega 3-fatty
acids found in seafood may improv