Association between unhealthy dietary patterns and anxiety symptoms: a systematic review and meta-analysis.
Arman Shafiee, Davoud Khalilzadeh Bonab, Saba Goodarzi et al.
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In 30 seconds
This systematic review and meta-analysis examined the association between unhealthy dietary patterns and anxiety symptoms in eligible studies identified through searches of three databases. Using a random-effects model, the authors found higher odds of anxiety symptoms with unhealthy dietary patterns overall (OR = 2.05, 95% CI: 1.49-2.83, p < 0.001). Fast-food consumption showed the strongest subgroup association, followed by ultra-processed foods and Western diets. Findings were reported as consistent across adults and adolescents, but substantial heterogeneity limits how uniformly the pooled estimate applies.
Key findings
- Unhealthy dietary patterns were associated with increased odds of anxiety symptoms (OR = 2.05, 95% CI: 1.49-2.83, p < 0.001).
- Fast-food consumption had the strongest subgroup association (OR = 3.05, 95% CI: 1.37-6.79), followed by ultra-processed foods (OR = 2.69, 95% CI: 1.48-4.89).
- The pooled analysis showed substantial heterogeneity (I² = 95.49%).
- Potential publication bias was suggested by funnel plots, while Egger's test was non-significant (p = 0.27).
Why it matters
The findings add to evidence linking dietary patterns with mental health and suggest that anxiety symptoms may be more common alongside unhealthy eating patterns. The association may be relevant when considering health behaviours in discussions of anxiety, but the review does not establish that diet causes anxiety or that dietary change will reduce symptoms.
What to keep in mind
Substantial heterogeneity (I² = 95.49%) indicates considerable variation across included studies. The abstract also notes potential publication bias based on funnel plots.