Macronutrient and Micronutrient Intake and Risk of Depression During Pregnancy: A Cross-Sectional Study in the City of Córdoba, Argentina

Abstract

Introduction: Macronutrient and micronutrient deficiencies have been associated with the risk of depression during pregnancy (RDDP). However, evidence regarding certain nutrients remains conflicting.

Objective: To analyze macronutrient and micronutrient intake and the risk of depression during pregnancy among pregnant women in the city of Córdoba, Argentina, from 2021 to 2022.

Materials and Method: An observational cross-sectional study was conducted among 228 pregnant women. A questionnaire assessing sociodemographic and health-related characteristics and a food frequency questionnaire, complemented by a photographic food atlas, were administered. The Edinburgh Perinatal Depression Scale was self-administered to assess the risk of depression during pregnancy. The distribution of the risk of depression during pregnancy was described, and dietary intake was characterized. Logistic regression models were developed to assess the association between macronutrient and micronutrient intake and the risk of depression during pregnancy.

Results: Twenty-five percent of participants presented a risk of depression during pregnancy. Most participants did not meet the recommended intake levels for ω-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs), vitamin D, vitamin E, vitamin C, vitamin B6, calcium, iron, and zinc, with the exception of ω-6 PUFAs. In the adjusted models, higher zinc intake was associated with a lower risk of depression during pregnancy, whereas higher iron intake was associated with a higher risk of depression during pregnancy.

Conclusions: The associations between iron and zinc intake and the risk of depression during pregnancy provide relevant evidence for understanding potential diet-related interactions. Further research is needed to investigate diet as a potentially modifiable factor.