Association between nutrient patterns and odds of depressive symptomatology: a population-based cohort of older adults followed during 15-y

Abstract

Purpose: Nutrition, as a modifiable exposure, seems relevant to prevent depression. Several nutrients have been associated with a lower risk of depression in older adults, but longitudinal studies examining nutrient combinations are lacking. Therefore, we investigated the association between a posteriori nutrient patterns and the odds of depressive symptomatology (DS) in older adults over time.

Methods: The sample included participants from the French Three-City cohort, a prospective population-based study focusing on adults ≥ 65 years. Nutrient intakes were assessed using a 24-hour recall in 2001 and Principal Component Analysis based on 40 nutrients, was performed to identify nutrient patterns. DS was assessed at each visit (up to eight visits until 2018) and defined by a Center for Epidemiologic Studies-Depression score ≥ 16 and/or antidepressant medication. Random effect logistic regression was performed to examine the association between nutrient patterns and DS over time controlled for potential confounding variables.

Results: The study sample comprised 1,063 individuals (mean age 75.6y +/- 4.8) and 39.3% experienced DS at least once during a median follow-up of 11.5 years. Among 4 identified nutrient patterns, the first pattern characterised by high intake of magnesium, hydroxybenzaldehydes, stilbenes, dihydroflavonols, vitamin B6, lignans, tyrosols, folates, vitamins B3, B5, B1 and proanthocyanidins, was significantly associated with lower odds of DS over time (OR + 1 point = 0.85, 95% CI=[0.75;0.96]).

Conclusions: In this large sample of older adults, a mixed nutrient pattern was associated with lower odds of DS over time, offering valuable insights into nutrient potential role in mental health among older adults.

Keywords: A posteriori; Cohort; Depressive symptomatology; Nutrient pattern; Older adults.