There is a strong connection between your mental wellbeing and your physical health, and it’s one you should want to keep. Studies have shown that regular exercise and a healthy diet contribute to lowering your risk of heart disease and diabetes, among other conditions. But how does your mental health affect your weight? Let’s explore.
Depression Is Linked To Obesity.
According to the American Psychological Association, 15+ million Americans suffer from depression. That’s more than one in four individuals. If you’re one of them, you’re not alone. Depression is a serious mental health condition that can impact every area of your life, including your physical health.
Depression is frequently linked to obesity, which is why many people think that the two are somehow related. Despite this common misconception, there is still no clear evidence that proves a direct cause-and-effect relationship between the two. But it’s definitely true that people who are depressed are more likely to experience weight gain and obesity. Studies have also shown a direct connection between depression and an increased risk of heart disease.
Being overweight or obese increases your risk of depression, so it stands to reason that being depressed would make you more likely to be overweight or obese. In fact, if you’re not careful, being in a bad state of mind may tempt you to eat the wrong foods and avoid exercise, which would eventually help you pack on the pounds.
Weight Loss Is Crucial In Reaching A Healthy Mental State.
If you’re one of the many people who struggle with depression, weight loss is crucial in helping you reach a healthier mental state. Start by making regular exercise a part of your daily routine, and eat the right foods for your body type. Also, seek medical help if you’re not feeling better after a few months of trying to self-diagnose and treat yourself with exercise and food changes. It’s never easy identifying the mental state that you should strive for, but when you do find it, you’ll experience a sense of relief that is unique to the healthy minded.
Being overweight or obese increases your risk of depression, so it stands to reason that being depressed would make you more likely to be overweight or obese. In fact, if you’re not careful, being in a bad state of mind may tempt you to eat the wrong foods and avoid exercise, which would eventually help you pack on the pounds.
Why Is Depression Linked To Obesity?
There are several possible reasons why obesity and depression are linked. One theory is that during times of stress or trauma, the hormones estrogen and testosterone are released. These hormones, which are typically associated with reproduction and sexual function, are now known to play a role in the regulation of appetite and energy balance. They can also increase the breakdown of proteins into usable energy. When the body is in this mode, it’s commonly referred to as a “growth” or “compound” state.
So, during times of stress or trauma, these hormones can cause you to eat more and increase your metabolism, resulting in weight gain. As for why depression is associated with obesity, there are several possible explanations. One theory is that it may be the case because people who are depressed are less likely to participate in weight loss programs or follow diet rules, which could lead to obesity. Depression can also prevent you from participating in physical activities that would help you lose weight. As an obese person, you’re more likely to suffer from depression, and there’s a strong connection between the two. If you want to live a healthy lifestyle, you should strive to reduce your depression and avoid putting on more weight.
Being overweight or obese increases your risk of depression, so it stands to reason that being depressed would make you more likely to be overweight or obese. In fact, if you’re not careful, being in a bad state of mind may tempt you to eat the wrong foods and avoid exercise, which would eventually help you pack on the pounds.