THE RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN DIET AND MENTAL-HEALTH

A random sample of those on the electoral register of a Welsh city were asked to fill in a food frequency questionnaire and the General Health Questionnaire as a measure of mental health. In women, but not men, there was an association between the consuming of fruit and vegetables and better mental health. Those eating large amounts of fruit and vegetables were less likely to be anxious or depressed; the relationship existed irrespective of age and social background. The possibilities are discussed that firstly an increased intake of vitamins and minerals may be associated with better mental health and secondly that women with higher self-esteem may be more likely to consume fruit and vegetables in an attempt to slim.