Is Salt Responsible for Depression? A Scientific Study Reveals the Truth

While many people associate salt consumption with high blood pressure and cardiovascular diseases, a recent scientific study sheds light on another potential risk of excessive salt intake: it may also increase the likelihood of developing depression.

The American Association of Immunology published a study in the Journal of Immunology revealing that excessive salt consumption leads to higher levels of the protein IL-17A in the body. This protein has previously been linked to depression in clinical studies on humans.

To better understand salt’s impact on mental health, researchers conducted experiments on mice that were fed different diets for five weeks. Interestingly, mice that consumed high amounts of salt exhibited decreased activity and a lack of interest in their surroundings—behavioral traits associated with depression.

Further analysis showed that these mice had elevated IL-17A levels in their spleen, brain, and blood, suggesting a direct link between excessive salt intake and behavioral changes. Even more strikingly, mice that were unable to produce this protein did not display any depression-related behaviors, reinforcing the hypothesis of its crucial role in negative psychological effects.

These findings align with previous research linking sodium intake to mood regulation, further confirming a close relationship between attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and severe depression. Based on these insights, researchers recommend reconsidering daily salt consumption—not just for cardiovascular health but also as a preventive measure for mental well-being.

The study, led by Dr. Xiaojun Chen from Nanjing Medical University, could pave the way for new treatments targeting IL-17A to combat depression. It also highlights the significant role of diet in mental health, emphasizing the urgency of raising awareness about the importance of moderation in salt consumption.