Mental Health and Nutrition: A Study on the role of Anxiety and Depression in Eating Habits in College Students
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Abstract
Background: Healthy eating habits are crucial for mental health and well-being in young adults. Poor dietary patterns, characterized by high intake of refined sugars and saturated fats, can lead to increased levels of anxiety and depression. This study investigates the relationship between dietary choices and mental health among college students.
Objective: The study aimed to evaluate the role of anxiety and depression in dietary choices among college students at the University of Management and Technology, Lahore.
Methods: This cross-sectional study involved 144 undergraduate students aged 18-25 from a university in Lahore. Participants completed a self-designed questionnaire, including demographic information, a 7-day Food Frequency Questionnaire (FFQ), the Generalized Anxiety Disorder 7-item scale (GAD-7), and the Patient Health Questionnaire 9-item scale (PHQ-9). Data were analyzed using SPSS version 25 to assess associations between dietary patterns and mental health.
Results: The study found that 70% of participants suffered from depression, with 33.58% experiencing moderate depression. Anxiety affected 38.81% of students, with 21.64% experiencing mild to severe anxiety. Unhealthy eating patterns, including high intake of refined sugars and saturated fats, were linked to increased anxiety and depression. Males were more prone to depression than females due to unhealthy dietary choices.
Conclusion: Unhealthy eating patterns are associated with higher levels of anxiety and depression among college students. Promoting healthy eating habits can potentially reduce these mental health issues.
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