Anxiety as a consequence of modern dietary pattern in adults in Tehran—Iran

Food intake patterns in relation to mental health have already been revealed. To investigate the relationship between processed food consumption behavior and anxiety disorder, a cross sectional study was conducted. Overall, 1782 young adults aged 18–35 years were randomly selected using cluster sampling method from 22 districts of Tehran—Iran in 2011. Diet assessment was done using a 24 hour recall questionnaire in two times with a week interval. Anxiety level was determined using the validated Speilburger test (Persian version). A proportional odds regression model was used to assess the effect of processed food consumption on anxiety variables. A significant statistical difference was found between men and women in terms of processed food consumption (p < 0.001). Adjusting for age, total calorie intake, gender, body mass index, socioeconomic status, and history of sedative drug consumption as well as mental health disorders, the proportional odds regression model showed a significant relationship between increased consumption of processed foods and anxiety (OR = 4.73, 95% CI: 2.89–12.54 for state and OR = 4.91, 95% CI: 2.88–13.99 for trait). Identification, modification and adjusting incorrect food patterns in the community could be considered as valuable steps to turn down nutritional-based health difficulties.

► Tendency to eat processed foods is an indirect indicator of lifestyle.
► There is significant relationship between consumption of processed foods and anxiety.
► Significant relationship between anxiety intensity and gender was shown.
► We found lower intake of nutrient dense foods in high intake of processed foods.