Newcastle Study Links Daily Fruit Juice to 2.52-Point Lower Depression Scores in 42-Adult Trial

3 articles · Updated · SciTechDaily · Jun 6

A 42-participant randomized trial found adults who added one daily glass of 100% fruit juice or a smoothie to a 5-a-day plan posted depression scores 2.52 points lower on a 27-point scale after four weeks.
Both groups started at two or fewer fruit-and-vegetable portions a day and, with financial and educational support, raised intake to five portions, suggesting the mood difference was tied to the juice-inclusive approach rather than higher produce intake alone.
Fiber intake rose by about 8 to 10 grams a day in both groups, and researchers reported no negative changes in metabolic health markers despite concerns over sugar.
The Newcastle University study, published in the British Journal of Nutrition, addresses a practical barrier as only about 17% of UK adults and 10% of teenagers meet the 5-a-day target.