There is a strong connection between obesity and depression.
There is evidence of a biological connection between the two conditions.
Long-term use of certainantidepressantscan increase cravings for carbohydrate-rich foods and lead to weight gain.
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This can contribute to depression and other mental health issues.
A physical and mental wellness approach is essential in addressing these issues.
Probiotics and prebioticsmight also help to prevent and treat obesity and depression, but more research is needed.
If you are struggling to lose weight while you’re depressed, it’s essential to seek help.
Sleep
Poor sleep is linked to both obesity and depression.
Poor sleep is also associated with weight gain because sleep helps regulate hunger hormones.
Inadequate sleep can cause you to eat more or make unhealthy food choices.
Adults should get seven to nine hours of quality sleep daily.
Practicinggood sleep habitscan also help improve sleep.
Both conditions raise the risk of having certain other health conditions and a poor quality of life.
Being depressed can make it more challenging to lose weight.
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.Depression and obesity in the U.S. adult household population, 2005-2010.
National Council on Aging.How sleep affects your health.
doi:10.1136/bmj-2023-075847
National Institutes of Health.Depression.
Obesity Medicine Association.Find an obesity medicine provider.
Ufholz K.Peer support groups for weight loss.Curr Cardiovasc Risk Rep. 2020;14(19).
doi:10.1007/s12170-020-00654-4
Mental Health America.Find support groups.
