Young women’s food consumption and mental health: the role of employment

Abstract

Objectives: This study explores the relationship between young women’s consumption of healthy and unhealthy food and depression and examines the moderating effect of their employment status on the relationship. Methods: The National Longitudinal Survey of Youth 79 for Children and Young Adults (NLSY79 CY) was used for this study. The final sample included a total of 1524 young women aged from 18 to 35 years. Multiple Linear Regression was conducted to answer the research questions. Results: Fast food consumption was related to higher levels of depression among young women while fruit intake was associated with lower levels of depression. Employment status moderated the relationship between young women’s fruit consumption and depression. Conclusions: Young women are encouraged to consume more fruit and less fast food in order to ameliorate depression. Programs that target young women’s mental health should consider addressing their nutritional needs, through, for example, vouchers for fresh, nutritious foods; nutrition or cooking education; or having a certified nutrition specialist on staff.