Researchers from the University of Cambridge found that rising depressive symptoms were linked to subsequent weight gain. The findings appeared in a study published in PLOS One and contribute to a growing understanding of how mental health can influence body weight over time.
Many studies have noted that depression is associated with less healthy eating patterns and reduced physical activity, both of which can contribute to gaining weight. The Cambridge researchers added a new twist by showing that the severity of depressive symptoms may modulate this effect, suggesting a more nuanced relationship between mood and weight than previously recognized.
The study followed 2,133 adults aged 44 to 70 who tracked their mental health and weight via a dedicated mobile app over a period of six to nine months. Mental health was evaluated using three validated instruments designed to detect symptoms of depression, anxiety, and stress. This approach allowed researchers to observe changes in weight in relation to fluctuations in mood over time.
Results indicated no significant association between variations in anxiety or stress symptoms and subsequent changes in body weight. In contrast, an increase in depressive symptoms correlated with a modest rise in weight about one month after the mood flare, underscoring a specific link between depressive mood and weight trajectory.
The association appeared more pronounced among participants who started the study with a higher body mass index. This suggests that individuals who are already overweight or obese may be more vulnerable to weight changes tied to declines in mental health.
Earlier research has also explored potential connections between physical activity, mood, and weight, including observations about cycling and depression. While this study emphasizes depressive symptoms, it aligns with a broader body of work that highlights the bidirectional relationship between mental health and weight management, indicating that mood disturbances can influence behavior and metabolic outcomes across diverse populations. (Citation: Cambridge researchers, PLOS One, 2024.)