The relation of Red and white meat intake with mental disorders in Iranian adults

The relationship between meat consumption and mental disorders is less investigated. We examined the association of meat consumption with the odds of depression, anxiety, and psychological distress in Iranian adults.

This cross-sectional study was conducted on 3362 subjects with18-55 years. Usual dietary intakes were assessed through the use of a dish-based 106-item semi-quantitative food frequency questionnaire (FFQ). Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale(HADS), and General Health Questionnaire(GHQ), all validated in the Iranian population, were applied to collect data on anxiety, depression, and psychological distress, respectively.

In the current study, 28.6, 13.6 and 22.6%, of participants suffered from depression, anxiety, and psychological distress, respectively. Individuals in the top quartile of red meat intake had a 43% increased risk of depression (OR=1.43; 95%CI:1.09-1.89), compared to those in the first quartile, after adjustment for potential confounders. The highest vs. lowest red meat intake was related to a 92% greater risk of depression (OR=1.92;95%CI:1.17-3.15) in males. In overweight or obese individuals, despite the lack of any association between red meat intake and mental disorders, high intake of white meat was associated with a lower odd of psychological distress (OR=0.64;95%CI:0.42-0.99) and depression (OR=0.68;95%CI:0.45-1.00). In normal-weight participants, the highest vs. lowest red meat intake was related to 66% greater odds for depression than those (OR=1.66; 95%CI:1.14-2.42).

Red meat consumption was associated with an increased risk of depression, especially in men and normal-weight participants. In overweight or obese subjects, white meat intake was inversely associated with psychological distress.