| dc.description.abstract | Increasing evidence over the last decade suggests a relationship between nutrition and suicide risk factors (e.g., depression and suicidal ideation). For instance, several studies have linked meat consumption to reduced depressive symptomatology (Fung et al., 2001; Hu, et al, 2000). The current study examined the association between basic food group consumption and risk of suicide in adolescents and young adults. Data analyzed for this study were retrieved from an observational study examining the skeletal effects of selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors in adolescents and young adults (N = 267, ages 15-20 years). Suicide risk was assessed based on responses to measures of depression [Beck Depression Inventory-II (BDI-II)], anxiety (Beck Anxiety Inventory (BAI)] and suicidality [Self-Harm Questionnaire (SHQ)]. Consumption of nine basic food groups was assessed using the full-length Block Food Frequency Questionnaire (FFQ). Results were surveyed using linear regression analyses, correlation analyses, and multivariate multiple regression analyses. After controlling for potential confounding variables (socioeconomic variables, lifestyle factors, and the consumption of other basic food groups), lower meat consumption was a significant predictor of suicidal ideation (p<.05). Additionally, lower added sugar consumption (p<.05), lower fruit consumption (p<.05), and higher grain consumption (p<.01) were all significant predictors of anxiety. These results indicate a link between diet and suicidal ideation that warrants further investigation to determine the efficacy of dietary interventions in preventing suicide in youth. | |
