Seeing lawns and trees from your home can help combat addiction to junk food, cigarettes and alcohol, according to new research.

According to scientists at the forefront of a new study, investing in green spaces in towns and cities could help combat addictions to fast food, tobacco and alcohol.

The research showed that even smaller exposure to nature — such as looking onto a green space — can boost health, even without experiencing the natural world more directly through walking, jogging or cycling.

Psychologist Leanne Martin, of the University of Plymouth, said that the health benefits of a closer connection to nature were already well established — the new research now highlights how it can also combat addiction.

"It has been known for some time being outdoors in nature is linked to a person's well-being," Ms Martin said.

"But for there to be a similar association with cravings from simply being able to see green spaces adds a new dimension to previous research," she added.

The findings were based on 149 people who completed an online survey about their neighbourhood.

Among the participants, those with access to a garden or allotment showed unhealthy cravings with less frequency and at a lower strength.

Residential views where more than 25 percent was green space evoked similar responses.

During the study, participants were also asked about the amount of physical activity they undertook during the same period.

This suggested that exercise levels were irrelevant to reductions in the consumption of junk food, tobacco and drink.

The groundbreaking results build on previous research suggesting a brisk walk or bike ride through the park puts people off poor diets.

The new study pointed out that the same may be true based on sight alone — just by seeing birds, bees and foliage from the window.

It also adds to evidence pointing to the need to protect green spaces and create fresh ones within towns and cities. This will maximise the potential public health benefits.

The study was published in the journal Health and Place, and is the first to investigate the relationship between exposure to natural environments and craving for a range of addictive substances.

Ms Martin, who led it as part of her Master's degree, said: "It is the first to explore this idea, and it could have a range of implications for both public health and environmental protection programmes in the future."

Earlier this year a study found more than 2.5 million people in Great Britain lived more than a 10-minute walk from the nearest park or green space.

The charity Green Space Index by Fields in Trust calculated the average amount of green space per person is less than half of a six-yard-box on a football pitch.

A growing body of research links parks and green spaces to better mental and physical health.

They have been found to reduce the risk of heart disease, cancer, diabetes, respiratory illnesses and dementia.

Co author Professor Sabine Pahl, also based at Plymouth's School of Psychology, added: "Craving contributes to a variety of health-damaging behaviours such as smoking, excessive drinking and unhealthy eating...

"Showing lower craving is linked to more exposure to green spaces is a promising first step."

The researchers also suggest the cause of the association between nice views and fewer cravings needs to be further investigated.