Folic acid 'reduces depression'

The researchers are now calling for large-scale trials to take place

Adding folic acid to bread could help prevent depression, a new study shows.

York University researchers said there was a link between mental health issues and low levels of folate.

They said folate could produce "feel good" chemicals in the brain and have called for large-scale trials to take place.

Studies have previously shown that adding the supplements to foods such as bread could also prevent strokes and birth defects.

Relevant research

The York scientists looked at 11 previous studies involving more than 15,300 volunteers which had been completed recently.

Last month, the Food Standards Agency urged health ministers to make it compulsory for folic acid to be added to bread or flour to help prevent birth defects.

Dr Simon Gilbody, who led the study, said: "Our study is unique in that for the first time all the relevant evidence in this controversial area has been brought together.

"Although the research does not prove that low folate causes depression, we can now be sure that the two are linked."