A recent study published in BMC Public Health has explored the connection between food choices, specifically takeaway food, and physical activity levels, and how these factors contribute to anxiety and depression among university students. As mental health issues become increasingly prevalent in this demographic, the findings of this study shed light on the role lifestyle factors, such as eating habits and physical activity, may play in influencing psychological well-being.
The Growing Mental Health Crisis Among University Students
University life, often seen as a time of personal growth and independence, can also be a period marked by significant stress, anxiety, and mental health challenges. According to the study, moderate to high levels of depression, anxiety, and stress are common among university students, with these psychological issues increasing the risk of more serious consequences, including suicidal behaviors.
In addition to the mental health toll, anxiety and depression are associated with a range of physical health problems, such as diabetes, hypertension, cardiovascular disease, and gastrointestinal ulcers. Furthermore, when depression and anxiety symptoms occur together, they create even greater health risks—something known as comorbid depression and anxiety symptoms (CDAS).
Factors such as geographic location, social relationships, family income, and lifestyle choices all play a role in the severity of CDAS among students. Particularly concerning is the growing influence of unhealthy diets and sedentary behaviors on students’ mental health. Among the factors linked to CDAS, the consumption of sugar-sweetened beverages, poor sleep hygiene, and an inactive lifestyle stand out.
The Impact of Takeaway Food and Physical Activity
Takeaway food, often high in fats and sugars, is a common dietary choice for university students due to its convenience and affordability. However, frequent consumption of such food has been linked to poorer mental health outcomes, particularly in combination with sedentary behaviors.
The study conducted by a team of researchers from China assessed 14,340 university students, aged 18 to 22, to investigate how food choices and physical activity influence mental health. Participants completed self-surveys detailing their eating habits, physical activity levels, and symptoms of depression, anxiety, and stress.
Key findings from the study revealed a clear connection between high-frequency takeaway food consumption and increased mental health risks:
Takeaway Food Consumption: Over 26% of the participants reported experiencing symptoms of depression, while 34.6% experienced anxiety, and 23.8% showed signs of CDAS. Regular consumption of takeaway food was significantly associated with higher rates of CDAS. Students who consumed takeaway food 4–6 times per week were at twice the risk of developing CDAS, compared to their peers who ate takeaway food less frequently.
Gender Differences: The study highlighted that female students who frequently consumed takeaway food were twice as likely to experience CDAS as males. While both genders were affected, the psychological impact appeared to be more pronounced among females.
Physical Activity and Mental Health: Light physical activity was also linked to an increased risk of CDAS, particularly among males (35%) and females (20%). Interestingly, the effects of takeaway food and light physical activity on mental health were more significant in males, which contradicts previous research that suggested gender differences in lifestyle risk factors such as smoking, alcohol consumption, and drug use.
Combined Impact of Takeaway Food and Activity Levels: When physical activity and food habits were analyzed together, the results showed that even moderate levels of physical activity combined with frequent takeaway food consumption could increase the risk of developing CDAS by 60%. This risk escalated to 80% for students who ate takeaway food daily. Those engaging in vigorous physical activity but still consuming takeaway food regularly faced an even higher risk, with the likelihood of experiencing CDAS doubled for those who ate takeaway food seven or more times per week.
How Diet and Activity Impact Mental Health
The study’s findings support previous research that healthy eating behaviors can enhance mental health, while unhealthy diets—rich in fats, sugars, and additives—can destabilize mood and impair cognitive function. These detrimental effects are thought to be mediated by oxidative stress, neuroinflammation, and disrupted neurotransmission within brain circuits involved in regulating mood and cognition.
Takeaway food, particularly Chinese takeaway, is often high in unhealthy fats, sugar, trans fats, and food additives. Furthermore, the nature of takeaway food—often overcooked, deep-fried, and served in large portions—discourages healthier behaviors such as walking, socializing, or enjoying time outdoors. These behaviors, which are essential for maintaining good mental health, are typically overlooked when students opt for the convenience of takeaway meals.
Conversely, engaging in vigorous physical activity has been shown to support neuroplasticity—the brain’s ability to reorganize itself—by promoting healthy brain function and combating symptoms of depression. As current guidelines recommend at least 30 minutes of moderate to vigorous physical activity on most days, integrating physical exercise into daily routines can provide students with the tools to improve mental health, especially when coupled with healthy dietary choices.
Practical Implications for Students
For university students, the findings of this study underline the importance of both diet and physical activity in promoting mental well-being. Students should be encouraged to make healthier food choices, limit takeaway food consumption, and incorporate more physical activity into their daily lives.
Simple steps such as reducing the intake of processed, high-fat foods and replacing sedentary behaviors with regular walks, gym sessions, or outdoor activities can have a significant impact on mental health. Universities can also play a role by providing healthier food options on campus and promoting mental health initiatives that encourage physical activity and balanced diets.
Conclusion
The research highlights the complex relationship between takeaway food consumption, physical activity levels, and mental health among university students. With anxiety, depression, and stress becoming increasingly common in this group, addressing lifestyle factors such as diet and exercise may be a key strategy in combating the growing mental health crisis. By fostering healthier eating habits and promoting physical activity, universities can help students improve their overall well-being, reducing the risk of mental health disorders and their associated consequences.
