Abstract

Abstract:

Exploring the connection between ultra-processed food consumption and the quality of life (QoL) and mental health of educational employees can provide valuable insights into their overall well-being. This study aimed to evaluate the influence of food-related factors on the QoL and mental health of employees within the Brazilian Federal Education Network. This cross-sectional epidemiological study was conducted in 2022. with 1.563 participants. We used the WHOQOL-bref. DASS-21. PeNSE. and a self-developed sociodemographic questionnaire. The results showed that female participants had poorer mental health. showing higher symptoms of depression (p=0.010) and anxiety and stress (p<0.001). and lower QoL in the physical and psychological domains (p<0.001) compared with male participants. The older age group (>53 years) indicated higher QoL in the psychological (p<0.001) and environmental (p<0.015) domains. with differences in mental health-related symptoms (p<0.001). compared with the younger age group. Higher levels of education were related to higher QoL in the psychological and environmental domains (p<0.001). The consumption of ultra-processed foods. sodas. and sweets was negatively associated with mental health (p<0.001). as was the consumption of fried snacks. which indicated higher symptoms of depression (p=0.002). anxiety (p=0.006). and stress (p<0.001). Conversely. the consumption of healthy foods (vegetables and fruits) was related to better QoL in all domains (p<0.001). These results emphasize the need for interventions that not only encourage healthier eating habits. such as increased consumption of nutritious foods. but also promote a reduction in the intake of ultra-processed foods. in order to enhance the mental health and overall quality of life of Brazilian educational employees.