Effect of nutrient supplements on the depression of the elderly: the mediating effect of physical exercise

Abstract

Abstract Objectives: To explore the association between nutrient supplements and the prevalence of depression. To explore the mediating role of physical exercise in this association. Methods:Data from the Chinese Longitudinal Healthy Longevity Survey (CLHLS) were analyzed. A total of 8,427 older adults were included in this study. We used the Center for Epidemiologic Studies Depression Scale (CES-D-10) to assess participants' depression, self-reported use of nutrient supplements as exposure, and self-reported exercise habits to assess participants' physical activity. Logistic regression was used to analyze the association between nutrient supplements and depression. Mediation analysis was used to explore the role of physical activity in this association. Results: This study found that the use of nutrient supplements was associated with a lower prevalence of depression (OR=0.641, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.536-0.766). The prevalence of depression was lower among those who used one or more nutrient supplements compared with those who did not use nutrient supplements. Among the 8 nutrient supplements, calcium, vitamin A/D and other nutrient supplements played a greater role. And physical exercise played a mediating role in the association of nutrient supplements with depression. Conclusions:Using nutrient supplements could reduce the risk of depression. While using supplements, people should be exercising to promote absorption.