Споживання нутрієнтів та його зв’язок із психоемоційним станом і метаболічним профілем в українських жінок під час війни

Abstract

Acute and chronic stress caused by war leads to psychoemotional disorders that can change eating habits and impair metabolic health. The aim of the study was to investigate the nutrient intake of Ukrainian women and its association with psychoemotional state and metabolic profile. The study included women aged 30-75 years, residents of the City of Kyiv and the Region of Kyiv, who underwent a comprehensive examination during the war (main group, n = 76) and before the war (control group, n = 80). Participants underwent anthropometry, analysis of glucose and lipid metabolism, nutrition was studied using a semi-quantitative food frequency questionnaire. In the main group, plasma cortisol level was measured and questionnaires were used to assess the psychoemotional state. Women examined during the war had worse glucose metabolism and changes in nutrient intake, such as an increase in total energy and the proportion of animal protein and plant fat accompanied by a high proportion of simple carbohydrates. Higher animal protein intake was an independent predictor of fasting glycaemia. Symptoms of post-traumatic stress disorder and insomnia were predictors of increased fasting glycaemia during the war and were accompanied by higher consumption of simple carbohydrates. Trait and state anxiety increased with lower animal protein intake and higher starch intake. State anxiety was also higher in women with a lower fat proportion in diet. Higher fat intake during the war may be a compensatory dietary change to mitigate negative emotions and chronic stress. To prevent the progression of metabolic disorders in women affected by war, it is necessary to develop healthy eating habits and provide psychological support to counteract stressful influences.