Dietary fatty acids, omega-6/omega-3 ratio and cholesterol intake associated with depressive symptoms in low-risk pregnancy

Abstract

ABSTRACT Objective: This cross-sectional study aimed to evaluate the association of dietary fatty acids, cholesterol and omega-6/omega-3 ratio to depressive symptoms in a sample of low-risk pregnant women. Methods: Pregnant women (n = 60) within 20–40 years of age and with 22–24 gestational weeks were evaluated. Food intake was assessed by two 24-h recalls and depressive symptoms according to the Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale. Results: The prevalence of depressive symptoms was 18.3%. The Prevalence Ratio (PR) adjusted by per capita income, history of depression and pregnancy intention, showed a higher prevalence of depressive symptoms among pregnant women with excessive total fatty acid intake (PR: 5.80; CI95% 1.20–27.7) and omega-6/omega-3 ratio above 10:1 (PR: 3.63; CI95% 1.20–10.94). Discussion: Our results indicated a higher risk of depressive symptoms among pregnant women with total fatty acids intake and omega-6/omega-3 ratio above recommendation, but further studies are required to elucidate the mechanism of dietary fatty acids in the onset of maternal depression.