Nutritional intake and adequacy of intake among Vietnamese outpatients with major depressive disorder: A 24-hour recall study

Abstract

Objective

This study assessed the 24-hour nutrient intake, adequacy of intake, and associated factors among outpatients diagnosed with major depressive disorder (MDD).

Method

A cross-sectional study was conducted among 290 adult outpatients diagnosed with MDD at University Medical Center, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam. Participants completed a 24-hour dietary recall and the Quick Inventory of Depressive Symptomatology (QIDS-SR). Nutrient intake was analyzed using Vietnamese food composition tables and categorized based on national dietary recommendations. Mean daily nutrient intakes were calculated for energy, macronutrients, and micronutrients. Multivariate analyses assessed associations between demographic, clinical, and psychosocial factors and nutrient intake.

Results

Participants demonstrated low average intake of energy, macronutrients, and essential micronutrients. A majority had inadequate intake of total energy, carbohydrates, fats, and key vitamins and minerals such as calcium, potassium, and vitamins A and C. Nutritional deficiencies were more pronounced among individuals with greater depression severity, limited time for self-care, underweight status, and fewer economic resources. Principal component analysis revealed two main dietary patterns: one nutrient-rich and another characterized by high fat and sodium with low vitamin content.

Conclusions

Individuals with MDD in Vietnam demonstrate widespread inadequacy of nutrient intake, which is associated with both depression severity and several sociodemographic factors. These findings underscore the importance of integrating nutrition assessment and intervention into mental health care in Vietnam and likely other countries in southeast Asia.