Food Affects Mood

While there is a growing body of literature linking nutrition to mood, there is little information about food intake in people with diagnosed mood disorders. A study in the May issue of BMC Psychiatry study evaluated food intake obtained from 3-day food records in adults with mood disorders. Compared with regional nutrition survey data and national guidelines, a greater proportion of study participants consumed fewer of the recommended servings of vegetables and fruits. The participants also had greater intakes of high-fat whole grain products, processed meats, and higher sugar, fat or salty foods. Of the 1746 total meals and snacks consumed, 39% were from sources outside the home, suggesting a lack of time devoted to meal preparation. Finally, a subsample of participants agreed to have blood tests: 44% had mild hypercholesterolemia and 21% had hypercholesterolemia. The results of this study suggest that adults with mood disorders could benefit from nutritional interventions to improve diet quality.