A cross-sectional study evaluated the relationship between diet quality, specifically adherence to a Mediterranean-style diet, and anxiety levels among Israeli adults during the Iron Swords War from 2023 to 2025. The study, conducted from November 6 to 14, 2023, involved 534 respondents who completed validated anxiety assessments (GAD-7), diet quality measures (I-MEDAS), and food insecurity indicators.
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The findings revealed that 39.7% of participants reported moderate to severe anxiety (GAD-7 score of 10 or higher). Although overall adherence to the Mediterranean diet, as measured by I-MEDAS, did not differ by anxiety levels, several factors associated with poorer diet quality were significantly more prevalent among those with higher anxiety. These factors included reduced fruit and vegetable intake, increased snacking, self-reported dietary deterioration, and weight gain. Additionally, food insecurity, younger age, and being female were identified as independent predictors of moderate to severe anxiety.
This research highlights the complexity of the relationship between diet and mental health during high-stress situations. While adherence to a Mediterranean diet did not correlate directly with anxiety levels, indicators of dietary decline were strongly linked to increased anxiety. The authors suggest that public health strategies focusing on nutrition and mental health may be essential during periods of societal stress.
The study was conducted ethically and is represented by a population sample stratified by age, sex, and ethnicity. Approval for the research was granted by the Institutional Ethics Board of Ariel University. The results may inform public health initiatives aimed at improving diet quality and mental health support in conflict-affected populations.