THE RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN EMOTIONAL STATE AND THE CONSUMPTION OF FOODS RICH IN CARBOHYDRATES BY YOUNG ADULTS

Background. High intake of carbohydrates, especially simple sugars, by young adults is associated with the consumption of highly processed foods. This leads to the development of overweight, obesity and various somatic diseases. Identification of factors contributing to the increased consumption of this product group is a very important area of research in the field of public health. Emotional state may be one of such factors. This research aims at analyzing the relationship between consumption of selected groups of foods rich in carbohydrates and actual affective states on the one hand, and relatively constant emotional features on the other hand, in case of young adults.

Material and methods. The study was conducted among 120 young adults aged between 18 and to 38 years old. The questionnaire research method, combined with prospective evaluation of diets technique, was used in the study. Two research instruments were used in the research: the scale of positive and negative feelings and food intake frequency questionnaire FQQ.

Results. Our research confirmed the relationship between both affective state and relatively constant emotional features with consumption of selected products groups containing carbohydrates, especially simple sugars and glycogen, both in case of women and men. The said relationship has been demonstrated both in case of positive and negative emotions. The study did not confirm the relationship between affective state and consumption of chocolate.

Conclusions. The observed relations can be used in the prevention of first degree, taking into account gender differences. It can also be used in potential therapeutic interactions, especially in the field of proper nutrition.