Effects of Food on Mood among the Inhabitants of the Indian Ocean Islands of Mauritius and Rodrigues

Abstract

The paper aims to present results from a research work carried out among inhabitants of two islands of the Indian Ocean, namely Mauritius and Rodrigues to assess the possible effects of foods on mood. An online-based questionnaire survey was carried out among a random sample of 384 participants, including male and female, aged between 18-54 years old from Mauritius and Rodrigues. The questionnaire consisted of 15 questions; sections included demography, general knowledge of the participants on the different types of foods and their possible effects on moods and actual mood upon consumption. Data analysis showed that happiness correlated positively with food known to be rich in protein as well as fats and oils. It was also found that consumption of snacks and sweets among the Rodriguan male participants led to a mood of being angry, (p=0.024). Based on our findings, it was evident that effects on mood were influenced by gender as well as demographic factors. Given some slight cultural differences among the inhabitants of the islands, further research is warranted to assess the relative importance of food on moods especially to the dietary behaviours. No data is readily available on the effects of food on mood among inhabitants of the Republic of Mauritius, the study lends support for the need of a comparative study to understand the theoretical understanding between the two islands with different cultural aspects especially to nutrition. This paper would prove useful for the dietary behaviors as well as health and quality of life improvement in Mauritius and Rodrigues.