Background & Aims : Major depression is a common mental disorder with the peak prevalence among 25 to 44 year old women. A number of studies have demonstrated the association between some nutrients and depression, but the studies on the association of food groups with depression especially in the Middle East are rare.

  Materials & Methods : In this case-control study, 45 women with major depression and 90 women with no mental disorder participated. First, the psychologic questionnaires, and then general information, food frequency, and physical activity questionnaires were completed. Based on the food guide pyramid, food items of food frequency questionnaire were classified into 6 groups and 16 subgroups.

  Results : After adjusting for confounders, the odds of major depression was significantly lower in individuals who consumed higher amounts of citrus fruits, berries and melons (P=0.001), other fruits (P<0.001), dark green leafy vegetables (P=0.004), yellow vegetables (P=0.012), other vegetables (P=0.001), fish (P=0.017), and meat alternates (P=0.036). While the odds of major depression in participants who consumed higher amounts of meat and poultry (P=0.016), and sweets (P=0.071) was respectively 3.33 and 2.48 times more than those who consumed lower amounts of these subgroups.

  Conclusion : Consumption of healthier food groups is significantly associated with lower odds of major depression in women.

  SOURCE: URMIA MED J 2014: 24(11): 882 ISSN: 1027-3727