Examine the association of nutrients, lifestyle, and related factors with the risk of depression in a well-nourished over-55-years old community

Abstract

BACKGROUND: The older adult population is increasing, and depression is commonly observed within this community. OBJECTIVE: Examine the association of nutrients and lifestyle with depression in a well-nourished over-55-years old community. METHOD: The risk of depression was evaluated by the Beck Depression Inventory. Lifestyle, health-related quality of life, and physical activity were assessed. Dietary nutrient intake was recorded and adjusted to body weight. RESULT: 58% of the population had mild to severe depression. The differences between depression groups for age, gender, quality of life, and nearly all social-economic factors were significant. The impact of age, physical activity, sports, economic level, and smoking on depression was independent of all other factors. Most adjusted nutrients and energy intake were inversely associated with depression (protein (p = 0.043), fiber (p = 0.037), iron (p = 0.041), vitamin B6 (p = 0.011), and caffeine (p = 0.009) was independent of the energy intake). The predictor decision tree model for depression showed working in males and having sport, economics, and living with someone in females were the main depression predictors. CONCLUSION: Working for males and sports in females along with a high-quality lifestyle with a diet rich in protein, fibre, iron, vitamin B6, and caffeine were associated with a lower risk of depression in this population.