It’s a scientific fact that soft drink consumption isn’t good for you, but new research shows that drinking large quantities of soda could lead to major depressive disorder. JAMA Psychiatry notes that a recent German study found that soda consumption increased eggerthella — part of the gut microbiome — and can lead to inflammation and certain autoimmune or metabolic conditions, particularly in women. JAMA adds that the research shows soft drink consumption is “significantly” associated with depression among 932 clinically diagnosed patients and urges public health strategies to reduce intake that may help “mitigate” the risk of depression, especially among vulnerable populations.
