Dietary intake of B vitamins and their association with depression, anxiety, and stress symptoms: A cross-sectional, population-based survey

Fulfilled Mind, Healthy Gut? Relationships of Eudaimonic Psychological Well-Being With the Gut Microbiome in Postmenopausal Women

OBJECTIVE

Eudaimonic facets of psychological well-being (PWB), like purpose in life and sense of mastery, are associated with healthy aging. Variation in the gut microbiome may be one pathway by which mental health influences age-related health outcomes. However, associations between eudaimonic PWB and the gut microbiome are understudied. We examined whether purpose in life and sense of mastery, separately, were associated with features of the gut microbiome in older women.

METHODS

Participants were from the Mind-Body Study ( N = 206, mean age = 61 years), a substudy of the Nurses' Health Study II cohort. In 2013, participants completed the Life Engagement Test and the Pearlin Mastery Scale. Three months later, up to two pairs of stool samples were collected, 6 months apart. Covariates included sociodemographics, depression, health status, and health behaviors. Analyses examined associations of PWB with gut microbiome taxonomic diversity, overall community structure, and specific species/pathways. To account for multiple testing, statistical significance was established using Benjamini-Hochberg adjusted p values (i.e., q values ≤0.25).

RESULTS

We found no evidence of an association between PWB and gut microbiome alpha diversity. In multivariate analysis, higher purpose levels were significantly associated with lower abundance of species previously linked with poorer health outcomes, notably Blautia hydrogenotrophica and Eubacterium ventriosum ( q values ≤0.25). No significant associations were found between PWB and metabolic pathways.

CONCLUSIONS

These findings offer early evidence suggesting that eudaimonic PWB is linked with variation in the gut microbiome, and this might be one pathway by which PWB promotes healthy aging.

Bidirectional associations between dietary diversity and depressive symptoms in Chinese adult women: A retrospective cohort study

OBJECTIVE

This study aimed to examine the bidirectional associations between dietary diversity and clinical depressive symptoms in adult women, and influencing factors of clinical depressive symptoms.

METHODS

This longitudinal study included a total of 22,385 participants, each of whom underwent at least two data collections. We used convenience sampling to recruit women from a health management center of a general hospital in southern China from April 2015 to December 2021. They completed an online self-reported health questionnaire, which included demographic characteristics, lifestyle information, the Dietary Diversity Scale (DDS), and the Patient Health Questionnaire-9.

RESULTS

New-onset depressive symptoms and low dietary diversity were observed in this study among 1285 and 3223 participants, respectively. Negative associations were observed between baseline low dietary diversity and new-onset depressive symptoms (P < 0.05) and between baseline depressive symptoms and low dietary diversity (P < 0.001). Cross-lagged panel analysis indicated that dietary diversity negatively and prospectively predicted depressive symptoms, but vice versa (P < 0.05). Strong evidence of a nonlinear association between DDS scores and incident depressive symptoms was found (P nonlinear < 0.05) regardless of whether the variables were adjusted. Besides, age, menarche age, physical activity, sleep duration, longer sedentary behavior and other lifestyle factors were influencing factors of depressive symptoms (P < 0.05).

CONCLUSIONS

The present study identified bidirectional associations between dietary diversity and depressive symptoms, and the associations were found to have a non-linear pattern. Adherence to dietary diversity and a healthy lifestyle could be effective non-pharmacological preventive measures to reduce the incidence of depressive symptoms.

Association between the healthy eating index and anxiety among Chinese elderly: A population-based cross-sectional study

Introduction

Given that few studies have examined the relationship between healthy eating and anxiety in older adults, this study aimed to assess the relationship between the healthy eating index and anxiety in an older adult population using the Chinese Longevity Health Survey (CLHLS).

Methods

A national cross-sectional study from the CLHLS in 2018. The healthy eating index was constructed based on the frequency of intake of 13 dietary variables. Anxiety was assessed by the Generalized Anxiety Disorder scale. We used multivariate binary logistic regression to explore the association between the healthy eating index and anxiety and reported as odds ratio (OR) and 95 % confidence interval (95 % CI).

Results

A total of 13,873 older adults were included in the analysis after excluding participants with missing key variables. After adjusting for potential confounders, compared with participants in the lowest quartile of a healthy eating index, those in the second to the fourth quartile group had 4.7 %, 20.7 %, and 28.4 % lower odds of anxiety compared with those in the first quartile, respectively. Restricted cubic spline curves showed that anxiety risk decreased with increasing healthy eating index, and for each unit increase in the healthy eating index, the risk of anxiety in older adults decreased by 2.3 % (OR = 0.977; 95 % CI 0.970-0.985).

Discussion

In Chinese older adults, a healthy diet was associated with lower anxiety. Although prospective studies are still needed to confirm these associations in older populations, this result emphasizes the need to focus on dietary diversity in older adults to promote healthy aging.

Protective effects of niacin following high fat rich diet: an in-vivo and in-silico study

Niacin had long been understood as an antioxidant. There were reports that high fat diet (HFD) may cause psychological and physical impairments. The present study was aimed to experience the effect of Niacin on % growth rate, cumulative food intake, motor activity and anxiety profile, redox status, 5-HT metabolism and brain histopathology in rats. Rats were administered with Niacin at a dose of 50 mg/ml/kg body weight for 4 weeks following normal diet (ND) and HFD. Behavioral tests were performed after 4 weeks. Animals were sacrificed to collect brain samples. Biochemical, neurochemical and histopathological studies were performed. HFD increased food intake and body weight. The exploratory activity was reduced and anxiety like behavior was observed in HFD treated animals. Activity of antioxidant enzymes was decreased while oxidative stress marker and serotonin metabolism in the brain of rat were increased in HFD treated animals than ND fed rats. Morphology of the brain was also altered by HFD administration. Conversely, Niacin treated animals decreased food intake and % growth rate, increased exploratory activity, produced anxiolytic effects, decreased oxidative stress and increased antioxidant enzyme and 5-HT levels following HFD. Morphology of brain is also normalized by the treatment of Niacin following HFD. In-silico studies showed that Niacin has a potential binding affinity with degradative enzyme of 5-HT i.e. monoamine oxidase (MAO) A and B with an energy of ~ - 4.5 and - 5.0 kcal/mol respectively. In conclusion, the present study showed that Niacin enhanced motor activity, produced anxiolytic effect, and reduced oxidative stress, appetite, growth rate, increased antioxidant enzymes and normalized serotonin system and brain morphology following HFD intake. In-silico studies suggested that increase 5-HT was associated with the binding of MAO with Niacin subsequentially an inhibition of the degradation of monoamine. It is suggested that Niacin has a great antioxidant potential and could be a good therapy for the treatment of HFD induced obesity.

Mental Health Conditions, Including Depression and Stress, Are Associated with Increased Odds of Gastric Cancer-Insights into the Role of Diet: A Case-Control Study

Several risk factors, including nutritional/lifestyle ones, play a role in gastric cancer etiology. Further interactions with mental health have also been emphasized. We hypothesized that individuals with mental disorders would exhibit compromised nutrient intake, increasing their risk of gastric cancer. The state of mental health was evaluated in 82 patients with gastric cancer and 95 healthy controls using the 21-item Depression-Anxiety-Stress Scale. The participants' dietary intakes were evaluated by a 168-item food frequency questionnaire. Based on fully adjusted logistic regressions, there was a significant association between depression (OR = 1.938, CI 95%: 1.009-3.723) and stress (OR = 2.630, CI 95%: 1.014-6.819) with increased odds of gastric cancer. According to fully adjusted multinomial regressions, vitamins A and B6, beta-carotene, and black tea decreased the odds of depression, based on comparing the control group with cases of depression, while sugar and salt increased its odds. The highest significant association was found for salt intake and anxiety in cases with present anxiety (OR = 4.899, 95% CI: 2.218-10.819), and the highest significant protective effect was found for vitamin B6 and depression in cases with present depression (OR = 0.132, 95% CI: 0.055-0.320). However, considering causal relationships and clarifying the underlying mechanisms is imperative and requires further investigation. Advising healthy dietary patterns, e.g., a Mediterranean diet rich in vitamins, minerals, and phytochemicals such as vitamin A, B6, beta-carotene, and fiber, is expected to reduce the odds of gastric cancer, possibly related to lower levels of anxiety and depression.

Gut feelings: associations of emotions and emotion regulation with the gut microbiome in women

BACKGROUND

Accumulating evidence suggests that positive and negative emotions, as well as emotion regulation, play key roles in human health and disease. Recent work has shown the gut microbiome is important in modulating mental and physical health through the gut-brain axis. Yet, its association with emotions and emotion regulation are understudied. Here we examined whether positive and negative emotions, as well as two emotion regulation strategies (i.e. cognitive reappraisal and suppression), were associated with the gut microbiome composition and functional pathways in healthy women.

METHODS

Participants were from the Mind-Body Study (N = 206, mean age = 61), a sub-study of the Nurses' Health Study II cohort. In 2013, participants completed measures of emotion-related factors. Two pairs of stool samples were collected, 6 months apart, 3 months after emotion-related factors measures were completed. Analyses examined associations of emotion-related factors with gut microbial diversity, overall microbiome structure, and specific species/pathways and adjusted for relevant covariates.

RESULTS

Alpha diversity was negatively associated with suppression. In multivariate analysis, positive emotions were inversely associated with the relative abundance of Firmicutes bacterium CAG 94 and Ruminococcaceae bacterium D16, while negative emotions were directly correlated with the relative abundance of these same species. At the metabolic pathway level, negative emotions were inversely related to the biosynthesis of pantothenate, coenzyme A, and adenosine.

CONCLUSIONS

These findings offer human evidence supporting linkages of emotions and related regulatory processes with the gut microbiome and highlight the importance of incorporating the gut microbiome in our understanding of emotion-related factors and their associations with physical health.

Association of a lesser number of teeth with more risk of developing depressive symptoms among middle-aged and older adults in Japan: A 20-year population-based cohort study

OBJECTIVES

This 20-year prospective cohort study aimed to longitudinally explore the relationship between the number of teeth and the incidence of depressive symptoms among community-dwelling middle-aged and older adults.

METHODS

Data were collected from the National Institute for Longevity Sciences-Longitudinal Study of Aging (NILS-LSA) database from 2002 to 2022 (3rd-9th waves). Data of adults aged ≥40 years were analyzed and those who had depressive symptoms at baseline (3rd wave), had missing data, or did not participate in follow-up, were excluded. We collected data on the number of teeth at baseline. Depressive symptoms were defined as a score of ≥16 on the Center for Epidemiologic Studies Depression Scale. The generalized estimating equation (GEE) model was used to examine the longitudinal relationships between the number of teeth at baseline and the subsequent incidence of depressive symptoms.

RESULTS

The final analysis included 1668 participants, with a mean (standard deviation) age of 58.8 (11.1) years and a mean follow-up time of 12.9 years. After GEE analysis with adjustment for multiple covariates, compared to participants with ≥20 teeth, participants with 10-19 teeth and < 10 teeth at baseline were associated with a higher risk of depressive symptoms. The subgroup analysis showed that the effect was stronger in men than in women.

CONCLUSIONS

Among middle-aged and older community dwellers, particularly men, a small number of teeth after the age of 40 was associated with the future incidence of depressive symptoms.

Dietary niacin intake in relation to depression among adults: a population-based study

BACKGROUND

Previous studies have shown that an antioxidant diet is a protective factor against depression. However, the association between niacin, an important antioxidant consumed from the diet, and depression has received little attention. Therefore, we explored the association between niacin intake and depression through a cross-sectional analysis of the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) from 2007 to 2016.

METHODS

Depression was measured using the Patient Health Questionnaire (PHQ-9, score ≥ 10). Niacin intake was assessed through 24-h dietary recall interviews. The relationship of niacin intake with depression among adults in US was assessed by using a weighted multiple logistic regression model with subgroup analysis. Non-linear associations were explored using restricted cubic spline models. And we used a two-piece-wise logistic regression model with smoothing to explore the threshold for association between them.

RESULTS

A total of 16,098 adults were included in this study. Compared with individuals with lowest niacin intake Q1 (≤ 15.96 mg/day), the adjusted OR values for dietary niacin intake and depression in Q2 (15.97-22.86 mg/day), Q3 (22.87-32.28 mg/day) and Q4 (≥ 32.29 mg/day), were 0.92 (95% CI: 0.70-1.20), 0.76 (95% CI: 0.56-0.99,) and 0.68 (95% CI: 0.48-0.98), respectively. The results were not modified by sex, by age and by BMI. Furthermore, the relationship between dietary niacin intake and depression exhibited a U-shaped curve (nonlinear, p < 0.001). And depression risk was lowest when dietary consumption of niacin was around 36 mg/day.

CONCLUSIONS

In present study, moderate niacin intake, but not high intake, was associated with lower odds of depression suggesting a U-shaped association.

Key Nutrients for Optimal Blood Glucose Control and Mental Health in Individuals with Diabetes: A Review of the Evidence

Diabetes is associated with an increased risk of mental disorders, including depression, anxiety, and cognitive decline. Mental disorders can also contribute to the development of diabetes through various mechanisms including increased stress, poor self-care behaviors, and adverse effects on glucose metabolism. Consequently, individuals suffering from either of these conditions frequently experience comorbidity with the other. Nutrition plays an important role in both diabetes and mental health disorders including depression and anxiety. Deficiencies in specific nutrients such as omega-3 fatty acids, vitamin D, B vitamins, zinc, chromium, magnesium, and selenium have been implicated in the pathogenesis of both diabetes and mental disorders. While the impact of nutrition on the progression and control of diabetes and mental disorders is broadly acknowledged, there is a notable knowledge gap concerning the implications of distinct nutrients in preventing and mitigating symptoms of both conditions when they coexist. The aim of this study was to examine the role of nutrition in improving glucose homeostasis and promoting mental well-being among individuals with diabetes. Further, we evaluated the preventive or delaying effects of key nutrients on the simultaneous manifestation of these conditions when one of them is present. Our findings indicated that the use of personalized dietary interventions and targeted nutrient supplementation can improve metabolic and mental health outcomes in patients with type 2 diabetes.

Unravelling the Link between Psychological Distress and Liver Disease: Insights from an Anxiety-like Rat Model and Metabolomics Analysis

Psychological distress is associated with an increase in liver disease mortality. This association highlights the close relationship between psychological and physical health. The underlying mechanism of this association needs to be elucidated. In this study, a rat model of anxiety was developed via compound stress. Changes in the HPA axis and inflammatory factors in the brains of the rats were evaluated for behavioral tests and liver function, respectively. The liver metabolic profiles of the rats were characterized through liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry (LC-MS). Differential metabolites were screened based on the conditions of p < 0.05 and VIP > 1. A pathway enrichment analysis was performed on the metabolomics data using the Ingenuity Pathway Analysis (IPA). Immunofluorescence (IF), immunohistochemistry (IHC), and Western blotting assays were performed to examine the expression of the screened target epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) and to elucidate the pathway associated with the mechanism. The results showed the impairment of liver function among the rats in an anxiety-like state. Additionally, 61 differential metabolites in the control and anxiety groups were screened using metabolomics (p < 0.05, VIP > 1). The results of the IPA analysis showed that the key target was EGFR. We also found that an anxiety-like state in rats may cause liver injury through the EFGR/PI3K/AKT/NF-κB pathway, which can lead to the production of inflammatory factors in the liver. Our results revealed a mechanism by which anxiety-like behavior leads to liver damage in rats. The findings of this study provided new insights into the deleterious effects of psychological problems on physical health.

Exploring the Relationship between Micronutrients and Athletic Performance: A Comprehensive Scientific Systematic Review of the Literature in Sports Medicine

The aim of this systematic review is twofold: (i) to examine the effects of micronutrient intake on athletic performance and (ii) to determine the specific micronutrients, such as vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, that offer the most significant enhancements in terms of athletic performance, with the goal of providing guidance to athletes and coaches in optimizing their nutritional strategies. The study conducted a systematic search of electronic databases (i.e., PubMed, Web of Science, Scopus) using keywords pertaining to micronutrients, athletic performance, and exercise. The search involved particular criteria of studies published in English between 1950 and 2023. The findings suggest that vitamins and minerals are crucial for an athlete's health and physical performance, and no single micronutrient is more important than others. Micronutrients are necessary for optimal metabolic body's functions such as energy production, muscle growth, and recovery, which are all important for sport performance. Meeting the daily intake requirement of micronutrients is essential for athletes, and while a balanced diet that includes healthy lean protein sources, whole grains, fruits, and vegetables is generally sufficient, athletes who are unable to meet their micronutrient needs due to malabsorption or specific deficiencies may benefit from taking multivitamin supplements. However, athletes should only take micronutrient supplements with the consultation of a specialized physician or nutritionist and avoid taking them without confirming a deficiency.

Dietary Nutrient Deficiencies and Risk of Depression (Review Article 2018-2023)

Depression is classified as one of the most common mental disorders. Its prevalence has recently increased, becoming a growing public health threat. This review focuses on clarifying the role and importance of individual nutrients in the diet and the impact of nutrient deficiencies on the risk of depression. Deficiencies in nutrients such as protein, B vitamins, vitamin D, magnesium, zinc, selenium, iron, calcium, and omega-3 fatty acids have a significant impact on brain and nervous system function, which can affect the appearance of depressive symptoms. However, it is important to remember that diet in itself is not the only factor influencing the risk of or helping to treat depression. There are many other aspects, such as physical activity, sleep, stress management, and social support, that also play an important role in maintaining mental health. The data review observed that most of the available analyses are based on cross-sectional studies. Further studies, including prospective cohort, case-control studies, are recommended to draw more reliable conclusions.

Relationship between nutritional status and anxiety and depression in hospitalized diabetic patients in Turkey

BACKGROUND

Anxiety and depression often coexist in patients with chronic diseases. We evaluated the nutritional status of diabetic patients and its relationship with anxiety and depression.

METHODS

Demographic, diabetic information (disease duration, treatment, hospitalization) information and anthropometric measurements (weight, height, waist, and hip circumference) were recorded. The Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HADS) was used to assess anxiety and depression. 24-h food records were obtained to determine daily energy and nutrient intake.

RESULTS

In this study of 222 patients, the rates of anxiety, depression and anxious depression were 23.8%, 21.6%, 12.2%, respectively. Those who skipped medication/insulin doses and did not exercise regularly had significantly higher anxiety and depression scores. Anxiety and depression scores were positively correlated with disease duration, waist circumference, waist/hip, and waist/height. Being married, engaging in regular exercise, and increased vitamin B₆ consumption were inversely related to anxiety and depression. According to food records, patients with anxiety and depression have a higher proportion of energy from dietary carbohydrates. Anxiety and depression scores were negatively related to dietary energy, protein, fat, some vitamin (retinol, group B, C, and D), and mineral (K, Mg, P, Fe, Zn, Cu) intake.

CONCLUSIONS

Maintaining healthy body weight, compliance with medication/insulin treatment, and regular exercise may help in the prevention of anxiety and depression in hospitalized diabetic patients. Alternatively, anxiety and depression may adversely affect body weight, compliance with treatment, and engaging in regular exercise. Prospective studies are needed to determine the direction of causality.

Processed Food-Sweets Patterns and Related Behaviors with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder among Children: A Case-Control Study

BACKGROUND

Previous studies have focused on the associations between core symptoms and dietary intake in children with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). However, few studies have explored how dietary patterns and behaviors relate to the risk of ADHD. The aim of our study is to explore the associations between dietary patterns and behaviors and the risk of ADHD, which could provide evidence for follow-up and treatments for children with ADHD.

METHODS

We conducted a case-control study, including 102 children diagnosed with ADHD and 102 healthy children. The food frequency questionnaire (FFQ) and the children's eating behavior questionnaire (CEBQ) were used to investigate food consumption and eating behaviors. We applied exploratory factor analysis for constructing dietary patterns, and the factor scores were adopted for log-binomial regression to assess the associations between how dietary patterns and eating behaviors affect the risk of ADHD.

RESULTS

We extracted five dietary patterns with a cumulative contribution rate of 54.63%. Processed food-sweets scores revealed positive associations with an increased risk of ADHD (OR = 1.451, 95% CI: 1.041-2.085). Moreover, processed food-sweets tertile 3 was associated with an increased risk of ADHD (OR = 2.646, 95% CI: 1.213-5.933). In terms of eating behaviors, the group with a higher score relating to a desire to drink was also positively correlated with the risk of ADHD (OR = 2.075, 95% CI: 1.137-3.830).

CONCLUSIONS

In the treatment and follow-up of children with ADHD, dietary intake and eating behaviors should be considered.

The relationship between nutrition and depression in the life process: A mini-review

Depression is one of the leading health problems, and >300 million people have a major depressive disorder and this number is getting increasing. Depression complicates the management of existing chronic diseases and the management of complications that may arise. A person's mental state can affect their food preferences, and food preferences can also affect their mental state. In this paper, depression and eating behavior, diet quality, folic acid, vitamin B12, vitamin B6, vitamin D, omega-3 fatty acids, magnesium, selenium, zinc and copper, prebiotics and probiotics are discussed. Research on the subject emphasizes that diet quality may also affect the occurrence of depression. However, studies also indicated that dietary nutrients such as folic acid, vitamin B12, vitamin B6, omega-3 fatty acids, zinc, selenium, and magnesium might be associated with the risk of depression.

Dietary diversity, physical activity and depressive symptoms among middle-aged women: A cross-sectional study of 48,637 women in China

OBJECTIVE

Depression is the leading cause of mental health-related disease burden. This study aimed to investigate the relationship among dietary diversity, physical activity and depressive symptoms in middle-aged women.

METHOD

Based on the WHO guidelines on physical activity, subjects who meet moderate-intensity aerobic physical exercise of 150-300 min per week were qualified or otherwise unqualified. The dietary diversity scores (DDS) were developed according to the balanced diet pagoda and assessed the consumption of nine food groups. The total scores ranged from 0 to 9 and could divide into three levels: insufficient [DDS-1] (score of 1-5), moderate [DDS-2] (score of 6-7), and sufficient [DDS-3] (score of 8-9).

RESULTS

An age at menarche ≥12 years old (OR = 0.94; 95 % CI: 0.89-1.00; p < 0.05), a higher dietary diversity score [DDS-3] (OR = 0.59; 95 % CI: 0.55-0.63; p < 0.001), drinking coffee (OR = 0.88; 95 % CI: 0.84-0.92; p < 0.001), and qualified physical activity (OR = 0.69; 95 % CI: 0.66-0.72; p < 0.001) were protective factors for depressive symptoms, while an age at first birth ≤20 years old (OR = 1.23; 95 % CI: 1.12-1.36; p < 0.001) or ≥30 years old (OR = 1.18; 95 % CI: 1.11-1.26; p < 0.001), eating late-night snacks (OR = 1.44; 95 % CI: 1.36-1.52; p < 0.001), drinking sugar-sweetened beverages (OR = 1.15; 95 % CI: 1.06-1.24; p < 0.001), and overeating (OR = 2.30; 95 % CI: 2.069-2.56; p < 0.001) were risk factors.

CONCLUSION

This study suggested that dietary diversity and physical activity are associated with depressive symptoms in middle-aged women. To improve dietary diversity, attention should be given to dietary patterns and dietary habits, instead of simply increasing the amount of food.

[B vitamins and brain dysfunction]

An unbalanced diet and some other factors are the reason for the extreme prevalence of hypovitaminosis among the population of both developing and developed countries. The metabolic relationships of B vitamins determine the more frequent occurrence of poly-, rather than monovitamin deficiency. Since B vitamins play an important role in the processes of energy production and in the functioning of neurotransmitter systems, the first symptoms of such polyhypovitaminosis are signs of brain dysfunction: asthenia, depression, anxiety, cognitive disorders. Correct diagnosis of polyhypovitaminosis based on the identification of risk groups of patients and the determination of their subclinical or early manifesting signs of brain dysfunction is the most important task of a practicing physician. Detection of insufficient intake and vitamin content, as well as verification of the onset of symptoms of brain dysfunction and the appointment of adequate therapy can significantly increase the effectiveness of treatment, as well as prevent asthenic, psycho-emotional and cognitive disorders in patients with polyhypovitaminosis.

[A complex of B vitamins, choline and inosine in the treatment of chronic pain]

Chronic pain is an independent disease associated with multiple changes in the nervous, endocrine and immune systems. The use of B vitamins is pathogenetically justified. Unlike others, the CompligamB complex contains almost all fractions of B vitamins, inosine and para-aminobenzoic acid, which provides an additional therapeutic effect. The effects of vitamins are summarized, in some cases they are potentiated, while none of them can replace the other, so it is advisable to use vitamin complexes.

Dietary intervention in depression - a review

Depression is a mental illness that affects the normal lives of over 300 million people. Unfortunately, about 30% to 40% of patients do not adequately respond to pharmacotherapy and other therapies. This review focuses on exploring the relationship between dietary nutrition and depression, aiming to find safer and efficient ingredients to alleviate depression. Diet can affect depression in numerous ways. These pathways include the regulation of tryptophan metabolism, inflammation, hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis, microbe-gut-brain axis, brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) and epigenetics. Furthermore, probiotics, micronutrients, and other active substances exhibit significant antidepressant effects by regulating the above pathways. These provide insights for developing antidepressant foods.

The associations between COVID-19 vaccination and psychological disorders among healthcare workers in China

INTRODUCTION

COVID-19 has caused an unprecedented psychological affection that might impact the nationwide vaccination program in China. This study was to explore the association between COVID-19 vaccination and psychological disorders among healthcare workers.

METHODS

The study included 1571 healthcare workers from an anonymous online survey. Participants' sociodemographic characteristics, uptake data for the COVID-19 vaccine, and scores of the Depression, Anxiety, and Stress Scale (DASS-21) were collected. Nonparametric tests were conducted to compare the mean scores of DASS-21 between different subgroups. The potential factors related to psychological disorders of healthcare workers were analyzed using logistic regression.

RESULTS

The vaccination rate was 69.6 %, the incidence of vaccine-related adverse events was 35.13 %, and the prevalence of depression, anxiety, and stress were 24.8 %, 32 %, and 33.4 % in this study, respectively. Compared to vaccinated participants (single-dose and double-dose vaccines), unvaccinated participants got significantly higher mean scores of DASS-21 (p < 0.05 for all). Vaccinated participants who suffered no adverse events scored significantly lower than those who suffered 1-2 or ≥3 adverse events (p < 0.05 for all). Vaccination was negatively associated with higher depression, anxiety, and stress, however, the number of vaccine-related adverse events was positively associated with them.

LIMITATIONS

As this is a cross-sectional study, we could only speculate on the causality.

CONCLUSIONS

An obvious impact of the psychological disorders on the COVID-19 vaccine coverage and related adverse events was detected in this study. Public health agencies should attach great importance to the psychological states of our citizens before getting vaccinated.

Interaction between ultra-processed food intake and genetic risk score on mental health and sleep quality

PURPOSE

Mental health and sleep quality are associated with genetics and nutrient and energy intake. The present study examined the association between ultra-processed food (UPF) intake and genetic risk score (GRS) and their interactions on mental health and sleep quality in Iranian women.

METHODS

A cross-sectional study was conducted on 278 overweight and obese females aged between 18 and 56 years. According to the NOVA classification system, 37 food groups and beverages were collected using a 147-item semi-quantitative food frequency questionnaire (FFQ). The blood parameters of all participants were assessed. Mini-column kit (type G; Genall; Exgene) and the PCR-RFLP method were used to extract DNA and determine gene polymorphism, respectively. Three single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs), including Caveolin_1 (Cav_1), Melanocortin4 receptor (MC4R), and cryptochrome circadian regulator 1 (CRY1), were used to calculate GRS. The individual risk allele (0, 1, 2) for each SNP was calculated using the incremental genetic model.

RESULTS

After controlling for confounders, a significant interaction was found for depression (β = 0.026, 95% CI 0.003, 0.049, P = 0.028) and depression anxiety stress scales (DASS) score (β = 0.059, 95% CI 0.001, 0.117, P = 0.046) on the NOVA classification system and GRS.

CONCLUSIONS

The findings of this study showed a significant interaction between GRS and the NOVA classification system on mental disorders, including depression, DASS score and stress. There was also a significant relationship between the NOVA classification system and anxiety, DASS score, sleep quality and depression. Furthermore, a partially significant association was observed between GRS and stress.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Level V, cross-sectional descriptive study.

Dietary Intake of Carotenoids and Risk of Depressive Symptoms: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

Given the important role of oxidative stress in the pathogenesis of depression, the potential role of dietary antioxidant supplementation in the prevention of depression has attracted considerable attention. Most studies suggest that dietary carotenoids may play a role in maintaining depressive symptoms due to their antioxidant activity, but some studies concluded the contrary. This study conducted a meta-analysis of observational studies to test the relationship between carotenoid supplements and depressive symptoms. After a comprehensive search of the Cochrane Library, PubMed, Embase Scopus, and Web of Science databases from their inception to 28 July 2022, 12 publications met the inclusion and exclusion criteria, of which 8 were cross-sectional studies, 3 were case−control studies, and 1 was a cohort study, involving a total of 33,466 participants. Pooled meta-analysis found that intake of total carotenoids (OR = 0.61, 95% CI [0.53, 0.71], p < 0.01), beta-carotene (OR = 0.61, 95% CI [0.52, 0.70], p < 0.01), alpha-carotene (OR = 0.71, 95% CI [0.60, 0.83], p < 0.01), lycopene (OR = 0.71, 95% CI [0.55, 0.90], p < 0.01), lutein, and/or corn xanthin (OR = 0.53, 95% CI [0.43, 0.66], p < 0.01) was significantly inversely associated with depressive symptoms, while beta-cryptoxanthin (OR = 1.07, 95% CI [0.52, 2.21], p = 0.86) had no significance. At the same time, this meta-analysis was free of publication bias and heterogeneity. Although further studies are needed to elucidate the causal relationship between carotenoids and depressive symptoms, and to further reveal the mechanism of their association, the results of our meta-analysis suggest that carotenoids are protective factors for depressive symptoms, and dietary intake may help in reducing the risk of depressive symptoms.

Analysis of reaction between vitamin B6 and bovine serum albumin based on a terahertz metamaterial sensor

A four-peak terahertz metamaterial sensor was used to detect the reaction between different concentrations of vitamin B₆ (VB₆) and bovine serum albumin (BSA), which achieves a concentration range (0.015-0.125 mg/µl) of VB₆ and a maximum binding concentration (0.05 mg/µl) of VB₆ and 0.0875 mg/µl BSA. To understand the combination of VB₆ and BSA, the reactants between VB (VB₁, VB₃, and VB₅) with the same concentration (0.05 mg/µl) and a BSA solution with a concentration of 0.0875 mg/µl were carried on the surface of the sensor. Experimental results show that the reactants cause the four resonance peaks of the sensor to produce the coincident redshift, which is the same as the order of their binding coefficients determined by the fluorescence method. The experimental process indicates that it is feasible to use terahertz metamaterials to detect the reaction process of organic matter.

Effects of the Concept of Fast-Track Surgery Combined with Empathic Nursing on Perioperative Complication Prevention and Postoperative Recovery of Gynecological Malignant Tumor Patients

Objective

This study is aimed at exploring the effects of the concept of fast-track surgery (FTS) combined with empathic nursing on perioperative complication prevention and postoperative recovery of gynecological malignant tumor patients.

Methods

A total of 180 patients with gynecological malignant tumor treated by surgery in our hospital from September 2018 to October 2021 were randomly divided into three groups: group A, group B, and group C, with 60 patients in each group. Group C was given conventional nursing intervention, group B was given FTS intervention, and group A was given FTS intervention combined with empathic care. Psychological stress state (systolic blood pressure, diastolic blood pressure, and heart rate), postoperative recovery indicators (time of first anal exhaust, time of first defecation, time of getting out of bed, and length of postoperative hospital stay), postoperative complications, and psychological state (Self-Rating Anxiety Scale (SAS) and Self-Rating Depression Scale (SDS)) levels of patients in the three groups were compared.

Results

Systolic blood pressure, diastolic blood pressure, and heart rate in group A were lower than those in group B, and those in group B were lower than those in group C (all P < 0.05). The time of first anal exhaust, time of first defecation, time of getting out of bed, and postoperative hospital stay in groups A and B were shorter than those in group C (all P < 0.05).The incidence of postoperative complications in groups A and B was 8.33% and 8.33%, respectively, lower than 23.33% in group C (both P < 0.05). SAS and SDS scores of group A were lower than those of groups B and C after intervention (all P < 0.05).

Conclusion

The concept of FTS combined with empathic nursing is beneficial to reduce the stress response of patients with gynecological malignant tumor before surgery, reduce the risk of postoperative complications, improve patients' mood, and speed up the rehabilitation process of patients.

Cross-Sectional Associations between Dietary Daily Nicotinamide Intake and Patient-Reported Outcomes in Colorectal Cancer Survivors, 2 to 10 Years Post-Diagnosis

Supplementation with nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide (NAD⁺) precursors including dietary nicotinamide has been found to boost tissue NAD⁺ levels and ameliorate oxidative stress-induced damage that contributes to aging and aging-related diseases. The association between dietary NAD⁺ precursors and patient-reported health-related outcomes in cancer survivors has not been investigated. This study aimed to determine associations of dietary nicotinamide intake with different patient-reported outcomes in colorectal cancer survivors, 2 to 10 years post-diagnosis. A total of 145 eligible participants were recruited into this cross-sectional study. Dietary nicotinamide intake level was calculated based on data from 7-day food diaries. Fatigue was assessed with the Checklist Individual Strength (CIS), which is a subscale of the cancer-specific European Organization for the Research and Treatment of Cancer Quality of Life Questionnaire-Core 30 (EORTC), and anxiety and depression were assessed with Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HADS). Oxidative stress marker serum protein carbonyl contents and serum NAD⁺ levels were measured. A hierarchical linear regression model with confounder adjustment was performed to analyze the association of nicotinamide intake, serum protein carbonyl contents, and NAD⁺ levels with patient-reported outcomes. The median values of daily nicotinamide intake for male and female participants were 19.1 and 14.4 mg, respectively. Daily dietary nicotinamide intake was associated with a lower level of fatigue (β: -14.85 (-28.14, -1.56)) and a lower level of anxiety and depression (β: -4.69 (-8.55, -0.83)). Subgroup analyses by sex showed that a beneficial association between nicotinamide intake and patient-reported outcomes was mainly found in men. To conclude, our findings suggested that higher dietary NAD⁺ precursor nicotinamide intake was cross-sectionally associated with less patient-reported outcomes in CRC survivors.

Food intake and attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder in children: A case_control study

BACKGROUND

The purpose of present study was to determine and compare food intake in children with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and healthy children.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

In this case-control study, 110 hyperactive children who had referred to Khatam Al-Anbia Clinic and Imam Hussein Psychological Center in Yazd were selected. In addition, for each case, two healthy controls homogenized in terms of age and sexes were enrolled from primary schools in Yazd, from the same urban region of the cases. After completing the general information questionnaires, height and weight were measured. The food intake of individuals was evaluated through a validated food frequency questionnaire comprising 186 items. As for quantitative and categorical variables, the independent t-test and chi-square test were used respectively, and the values were reported as mean and standard deviation. Independent T-test was used to compare food intake between the two groups.

RESULTS

No significant difference was identified between body mass index and energy intake of the two groups. Hyperactive children proved to have a higher rate of physical activity than non-hyperactive children (p = 0.001). Vitamin B12 and riboflavin consumption in hyperactive children proved to be significantly lower than that of the healthy group (p = 0.02). Intake of refine grain in the case group was significantly higher compared to the control group (p = 0.02). Healthy children consumed fruits and vegetable (p = 0.02), low fat milk (p = 0.003) and egg (p = 0.01) more than children with ADHD.

CONCLUSION

The present study revealed that hyperactive children consume less fruit and vegetables, low-fat milk and eggs as well as food sources containing B vitamins while consuming higher levels of refined grains. Future studies such as cohort and interventional types are needed to confirm these results.