Health team leader Catherine McCulloch said a significant proportion of both male and female clients had weight issues which were often related to their eating habits and a lack of physical activity.
"We find that the most common issues are eating a lot of takeaways, eating foods high in sugars, fats and salt, consuming fizzy and energy drinks and portion sizes."
She was unable to comment on whether men's diets were linked to mental health conditions, but said 33 per cent of clients needing green prescriptions were males.
New Zealand Nutrition Foundation dietician Sarah Hanrahan said research supported the idea nutrients found in fruit and vegetables played a role in prevention and management of depression in some people.
"Maintaining a healthy body weight and exercise can be important in managing depression.
"But while diet is important it is only one part of the picture and cannot replace the advice and support of a qualified doctor."
New Zealand Mental Health Foundation policy and development manager Hugh Norriss said the study findings contributed to a growing body of research showing links between diet and mental health.
"In general a good healthy diet can improve mood and generally make us feel better so it reduces the risk factors that might lead to common mental health problems like depression." APNZ
