In another nod to World Mental Health Day, here's a great reason to eat your fruits and veggies. Economists and public health researchers from the University of Warwick in the UK found that people who eat seven servings a day are happier and enjoy overall better mental health.
According to a release from the university, the research was carried out in conjunction with Dartmouth College and is due to be published in the journal Social Indicators Research.
Most western governments recommend "5 a day'' for cardiovascular health and as protection against cancer risk, but you'll need to add two more portions if you want to boost your mood.
Study co-author Sarah Stewart-Brown, Professor of Public Health at Warwick Medical School, is quoted as saying, "The statistical power of fruit and vegetables was a surprise. Diet has traditionally been ignored by well-being researchers."
Her co-author, economist Professor Andrew Oswald from the Centre for Competitive Advantage in the Global Economy at the University of Warwick, said, "This study has shown surprising results and I have decided it is prudent to eat more fruit and vegetables. I am keen to stay cheery."
