| Elevated pre-pregnancy body mass index (BMI) is associated with increased risk of perinatal anxiety, depression, and stress symptoms, and with excessive gestational weight gain (GWG), which predicts postpartum maternal mental health. Sugar intake is similarly associated with mental health and weight gain,but has not been thoroughly investigated in relation to postpartum mental health. More studies are needed in underserved areas, including HPSAswherein barriers to healthcare may be more prevalent and impactful. Therefore, this study investigated whether the amount of third trimester added sugar consumed interacted with pre-pregnancy BMI to predict GWG and postpartum mental health in a perinatal sample in an HPSA for primary care and mental health. Though no moderated mediation models were statistically significant, results indicated a correlation between prenatal added sugar intake and 6-month postpartum depression, anxiety, and perceived stress symptoms. Further, greater pre-pregnancy BMI predicted decreased GWG and increased 6-month postpartum depressive symptoms. Associated practical implications and future directions are discussed in detail.Key Words: Pregnancy, female, maternal diet, health professional shortage area, third trimester |