The Relationship Between Different Fatty Acids Intake and the Presence of Depression: A Population-Based Study

Background Depression is a common psychological disorder worldwide. Previous studies have explored the benefits of polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs) in depression; however, few studies have focused on the association between different fatty acids and depression. Therefore, we explored the effect of the intake of different fatty acids on the risk of depression. Methods The study was based on the data from the 2005–2018 National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES). We used a nutrient residual model and multivariate nutrient density model. We calculated the nutrient density and residual in men and women separately, and the fatty acid intake was divided into quartiles based on the sex distribution. The relationship between depression and different fatty acids was examined using logistic regression; furthermore, we explored the relationships in men and women. Results Monounsaturated fatty acids (MUFAs) and PUFAs, particularly n-3 and n-6 PUFAs, were associated with reduced odds ratios for depression, in contrast to total fatty acids (TFAs). The protective effect against depression of TFAs, MUFAs, PUFAs, and n-3 and n-6 PUFAs was stronger in women. Conclusion A higher intake of fatty acids, including MUFAs and PUFAs, may protect against depression, especially in women.