Can Depression Make Me Fat?

It’s often been thought that depression and other disorders are contributors to increased risk of cardiovascular disease. That and the fact it’s difficult to eat just one Lay’s potato chip. And don’t get me started on french onion dip.

Researchers at Rush University Medical Center have determined that there’s actually a link between depression and increased belly fat, which can lead to various health problems. The study demonstrated a clear connection between depression and visceral fat, the type of fat usually associated with disease.

The study involved middle-aged women only, but it stands to reason to us unscientific types that the same could hold true for others. Doctors believe that depression may cause chemical changes in the body which triggers the accumulation of visceral fat, which in turn can lead to diabetes, cardiovascular disease, and other ailments.

Depression linked to depositing of visceral fat

Anxiety, Depression, and Chronic Disease

I’m about to make an entirely unscientific statement regarding anxiety – it wears me out! Makes me tired, snatches my mojo, makes my ass drag…insert your own favorite expression here.

What is scientific is the link between anxiety & depression and long-term, chronic diseases. And I think my earlier statement is just a layman’s view of what has been clinically proven.

An extract from a study detailed in the Medical Journal of Australia demonstrates this relationship. For example, it’s known that people with anxiety have a higher incidence of stroke, heart attack, and cancer compared to the general population. Great…one more thing for us to worry about!

There’s been lots written about how stress and anxiety affects the immune system, and for me, being tired and wiped out at times means I don’t get as much exercise as I should, my diet tends to suffer (especially if I’m stress-eating), and I’m just generally not in good shape. So I need to be proactive at all times with a regimen that includes nutrition, fitness, and relaxation to help buttress against the health challenges that typically result.

As always, the key message is that getting treatment for your anxiety-related condition can be beneficial in helping you combat chronic disease as well. Live long and prosper!

eMJA: Depression, anxiety, and their relationship with chronic disease