The role of micronutrients in internalising symptoms

Recent research suggests that diet quality and mental health are associated. However, the relationship between specific nutritional aspects of diet, such as micronutrient intake, and mental health still remain relatively unconfirmed. This thesis first provides a critical review of theoretical and empirical literature that has examined the role of micronutrients in internalising disorders. Overall, there is epidemiological evidence of an association between specific micronutrient deficiencies, such as zinc and folate, and depressive symptoms. However, evidence from studies examining other micronutrients, such as vitamin C or magnesium, have been tentative. In particular, there is less available evidence supporting an association between micronutrients and anxiety symptoms. In order to further investigate these relationships, a cross-sectional study was performed examining micronutrient intakes and internalising symptoms in undergraduate university students. Results from the study are presented in light of recent epidemiological research and current theoretical models.