Influence of Weight-Control Attempts as Based on Self-Perception of Macronutrient Intake Among Young Females and Its Association with Mood Disorder

BACKGROUND: There are a few studies on the association between macronutrients and mood, but none on weight control based on self-perception of specific macronutrients and mood. OBJECTIVE: To assess the association between anxiety and depression levels and weight-control attempts among young females based on self-perception of diet that impacts weight by limiting or boosting a certain macronutrient. METHODS: A cross-sectional survey conducted on young females (n=302) with an age range of 19 to 29. Dietary intake was measured using the Food frequency questionnaire (FFQ) and 24h-dietary recall. Anxiety and depression were measured using the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HADS) questionnaire. RESULTS: Analysis of the data showed a significant and inverse association of macronutrients – carbohydrates (OR 0.86; 95% CI 0.77–0.95; p < 0.01), protein (OR 0.87; 95% CI 0.78–0.97; p < 0.05), and fat (OR 0.79; 95% CI 0.63–0.99; p < 0.05) – with the odds of abnormal anxiety was noted. In addition, lower omega-3 intake was significantly associated with abnormal anxiety score (OR 0.85; 95% CI 0.76–0.97; p < 0.05) and abnormal depression score (OR 0.31; 95% CI 0.14–0.68; p < 0.01). Increased calorie intake is associated with an increased risk of anxiety scores. CONCLUSION: This preliminary study found the importance of monitoring dietary intake, especially macronutrients, among the young population to screen for any onset of mood symptoms, especially for those who are following a specific diet without any supervision. Young people should be aware of the importance of following a balanced diet and seek dietitians’ consultation.