Abstract
The objective was to investigate the association between emotional states with adequate fruit and vegetable consumption (FVC). This is a population-based cross-sectional study with 1,100 adults from a medium-sized city in Southern Brazil. Adequate FVC was defined as concomitant intake ≥ 3 fruits and ≥ 5 tablespoons of vegetables per day. Exposures were self-perception of nervousness/stress and minor psychiatric disorders (MPD). Data analysis used logistic regression. After controlling for demographic, socioeconomic and behavioral variables, adults reporting lack of nervousness/stress were twice more likely to report adequate FVC than those who reported it. Similarly, those reporting not having MPD symptoms were 52% more likely to have adequate FVC than those who did not. These effects increased and remained significant among women.
Self concept; Mental health; Minor psychiatric disorders; Fruit and vegetable intake