Nutrition transition and affective status in the older population of Samos Island: a retrospective cross-sectional study

Purpose: This study aimed to investigate the relationship between Nutrition Transition (NT) and mood disorders among older adults on the Greek island of Samos, a population recently exposed to rapid sociocultural and economic changes. Methods: This retrospective cross-sectional study was conducted on a community-dwelling elderly population in Samos. Dietary patterns were assessed using validated food frequency questionnaires, and depressive symptoms were measured using the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HADS). Multivariable analysis was performed to explore associations between dietary changes and affective status. Results: The study revealed that 15% of males and 41% of females presented with depression, while 41% of males and 35% of females reported borderline depressive symptoms. Reduced fish consumption over the course of 50 years was significantly associated with increased depression risk, particularly in females (OR 2.86, CI95% 1.09–7.52). Increased consumption of sweets was linked to poorer mood outcomes (OR 1.66, CI95% 1.14–2.43). Surprisingly, no protective effect of fruit and vegetable consumption on depression was observed. Wine consumption in Samos, which has declined over the past 50 years, appears to have reduced depression risk in males (OR 0.49 CI95% 0.29–0.81). Conclusions: The findings suggest that NT in Samos has led to dietary shifts away from the traditional Mediterranean diet, contributing to increased rates of depression among older adults. Public health interventions promoting the retention of traditional dietary patterns may help mitigate the mental health consequences of NT in aging populations.