Diet quality and mental health in Australian Women – Global Burden of Disease study
Synopsis
The role of nutrition in chronic lifestyle diseases such as
cardiovascular disease and diabetes is well known. However, the role of
nutrition in mental health is lesser known. In Australia, over 3 million people
live with the symptoms of depression, with more women experiencing symptoms
than men. Research suggests that dietary patterns rich in fresh fruit,
vegetables, wholegrains, nuts, seeds, legumes, lean meat and water may protect
against depressive symptoms and that dietary patterns high in processed, refined
and sugary foods could contribute to the symptoms of depression. This project
aims to examine the relationship between Australian women's diet quality and
depression.