Associations of Starchy and Non-Starchy Vegetable Intake With Depression, Anxiety, Stress, Chronotype, and Sleep Quality Among Iranian Women With Overweight or Obesity: A Cross-Sectional Study Publisher Pubmed

Summary: Could vegetable choice relate to sleep and mood? A study linked non-starchy vegetables to less stress and depression and better sleep, not causation. #Nutrition #MentalHealth

Roumi Z ; Mirzababaei A ; Abaj F ; Clark C C T ; Jadidi P ; Rasekhmagham R ; Mirzaei K
Source: Journal of Health, Population and Nutrition Published:2026

Abstract

Background: Starchy vegetables may influence psychological well-being, circadian alignment, and sleep quality through their glycemic characteristics and related metabolic effects. In contrast, non‑starchy vegetables, which differ substantially in nutrient density and bioactive compounds, may affect these outcomes through alternative physiological pathways. Despite these distinct nutritional profiles, evidence comparing their separate associations with mental health and sleep-related patterns is limited. This study explored these relationships among overweight and obese women. Methods: In this cross-sectional study, 391 overweight and obese women aged 18–48 years were recruited using a cluster sampling strategy from community health centres. Data collection was conducted through structured face‑to‑face interviews performed by trained nutritionists. Mental health indicators (depression, anxiety, and stress) were assessed using the Persian DASS‑21, sleep quality was evaluated using the PSQI, and circadian preference was measured using the MEQ. Dietary intake was obtained through a validated 147‑item food frequency questionnaire (FFQ). Anthropometric measurements, blood samples, biochemical markers, physical activity, and demographic information were collected following standardized procedures. Results: The study included 391 women, with a mean age of 38.08 ± 8.61 years in the high non-starchy vegetable intake group and 35.31 ± 9.59 years in the low non-starchy vegetable intake group, all classified as overweight or obese. Participants with higher non‑starchy vegetable intake exhibited significantly lower odds of depression (adjusted OR = 0.40, 95% CI = 0.20–0.79, P < 0.001) and stress (adjusted OR = 0.30, 95% CI = 0.14–0.85, P = 0.02). Higher non‑starchy vegetable consumption was also associated with improved sleep quality (adjusted OR = 0.38, 95% CI = 0.19–0.77, P = 0.007). Furthermore, increased starchy vegetable intake was inversely associated with the morning-type chronotype (adjusted OR = 0.27, 95% CI = 0.09–0.83, P = 0.02) after full adjustment. Conclusions: Higher non-starchy vegetable intake was associated with lower odds of depression, stress, and poor sleep quality, while greater starchy vegetable consumption was linked to a lower likelihood of morning-type chronotype. Increasing non-starchy vegetable intake may support psychological well-being and sleep health, though longitudinal studies are needed to confirm causality. © The Author(s) 2026.