Dhaka, June 28 -- style diet rich in rice, miso soup and fish may help reduce depressive symptoms, according to a new study by the Japan Institute for Health Security.

The research, said to be the first of its kind, suggests that working-age individuals who follow a traditional Japanese diet are less likely to experience depression.

According to Kyodo News, the institute assessed the mental health benefits of a classic Japanese diet comprising soy products, cooked vegetables, mushrooms, fish, seaweed and green tea. A modified version that included fruit, fresh vegetables and dairy products was also examined.

While previous studies have explored links between the Mediterranean diet - which features vegetables, whole grains, olive oil an...