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Neuroscience/Nutrition and the Brain (Poster Session)

(P09-003-25) Relationship Between Serum Micronutrient Levels, Dietary Intake, and Depression Among U.S. Adults: Analysis of NHANES Data (2011–2016)

Saturday, May 31, 2025
11:45 AM - 12:45 PM ET
Location: Poster Board D-3

    Presenting Author(s)

  • TB

    Tafere G. Belay, PhD

    Associate Professor
    Central Washington University
    ELLENSBURG, Washington, United States

  • TB

    Tafere G. Belay, PhD

    Associate Professor
    Central Washington University
    ELLENSBURG, Washington, United States

    • Co-Author(s)

  • JY

    Joshua Yearout

    Central Washington University
    Ellensburg, Washington, United States

  • JY

    Joshua Yearout

    Central Washington University
    Ellensburg, Washington, United States

Disclosure(s):
Tafere G. Belay, PhD: No relevant financial relationship(s) with ineligible companies to disclose.


Objectives: This study aimed in assessing the association between serum micronutrient levels, dietary intake and depression.

Methods: This cross-sectional study analyzed data from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES). Depressive symptoms were assessed using the nine-item Patient Health Questionnaire (PHQ-9). Logistic regression was employed to investigate the association between depression and both serum micronutrient levels and dietary nutrient intake.

Results: The study analyzed data from 3,654 adults aged 20 and older, with a mean age of 43.9 years (± 0.39), and reported a depression prevalence of 9.2% among U.S. adults. Adjusted regression models indicated that normal serum iron levels (odds ratio [OR] = 0.74, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.56–0.97) and vitamin D sufficiency (OR = 0.75, CI: 0.63–0.89) were inversely associated with depression. Additionally, higher dietary intake of copper (OR = 0.66, CI: 0.53–0.82), selenium (OR = 0.48, CI: 0.37–0.63), and vitamin B6 (OR = 0.73, CI: 0.58–0.95) also demonstrated inverse association with depression.

Conclusions: The findings highlight significant associations between depression and serum levels of iron and vitamin D, as well as dietary intakes of copper, selenium, and vitamin B6. Future studies should focus on longitudinal designs with comprehensive assessments to further explore these relationships, investigate underlying mechanisms, and assess the potential of dietary interventions for managing depression.

Funding Sources: N/A