Can slimming lead to depression?

Too restrictive diet can result in depression or intensify its symptoms – according to research conducted by scientists from the University of Toronto. The problem especially concerns men. The findings of researchers are in opposition to previous observations. They suggested that it was rather the opposite – slimming is conducive to improving mood. It turns out that a lot depends on what diet we choose.

Some overweight people try to lose weight to improve their physical and mental health. Specialists from the University of Toronto warn that too much reduction of calorie consumption, as well as a monotonous diet, may result in depression or its severity if its symptoms have previously appeared in some people.

The quality of consumed products is important

Observations were carried out on a group of over 28.5 thousand people, of which 7.8 percent reported symptoms of depression. They were conducted as part of the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey, and the results were published by the magazine “BMJ Nutrition, Prevention & Health”.

From the same research conducted under the guidance of prof. Venkata Bhata, a psychiatrist from the University of Toronto, shows that the quality of food consumed is also important. People who consume too much highly processed foods, compared to those who prefer a Mediterranean diet, more often complain about the symptoms of depression.

– Our studies have shown that it should be considered too restrictive and unbalanced diet, which applies especially to people who have already taken up such challenges and experienced related stress – the Canadian specialist emphasizes in statements for CNN and recommends that in nutritional restrictions to observe a balanced diet and adapted to individual needs and possibilities.

Diet yes, but under supervision

The current research showed that limiting calorie intake in overweight or obesity rather reduces the symptoms of depression. In December 2023, British specialists informed about it, citing their own research, published on the Cambridge University website. In these studies, however, the restrictive diet was conducted under the supervision of a dietitian.

– A diet applied without supervision, causing nutritional deficits, may not be beneficial to mental health – explains prof. Johanna Keeler from King's College London, author of the said study.

In her opinion, effective slimming has a beneficial effect on mood and physical health, because it improves mobility and social interaction.

– However, when a restrictive diet does not lead to weight loss, or the so -called The yo -yo effect, instead of improving the mood, we have frustrations and depression, which may result in depression – says prof. Keeler.

The British specialist believes that too much limitation of calories consumed causes disruptions in the functioning of our body, causing fatigue, sleep disorders and difficulties in concentrating attention. This may also result in anxiety disorders and appetite disorders such as anorexia and bulimia. Particularly unfavorable are rapid changes in diet, it is better to introduce them gradually and under the supervision of a specialist.