Australian Longitudinal Study on Women's Health
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The role of healthy and unhealthy dietary patterns on depression in Australian women.

Approved: 2019

Collaborators:

  • Dr Megan Lee
  • AProf Allison Hodge
  • Dr Joanne Bradbury
  • A/Prof Jacqui Yoxall
  • AProf Sally Sargeant
  • Dr Alison Bowling

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 dietary patterns and depression.