Overweight can cause depression

High BMI as a risk factor for depression

An international research team recognized in a study a strong link between obesity and depression. Even if there are no other health problems, a high body mass index (BMI) may favor the development of depression.

Researchers from the University of South Australia and the University of Exeter investigated the psychological effects of obesity. Although it has been observed for some time that people with obesity have an increased number of depression disorders, the current study provides the first evidence that a higher BMI can be considered a risk factor for the development of depression. The study results were recently published in the International Journal of Epidemiology.

An international study recently provided the first evidence that obesity is a risk factor for the development of depression. (Image: terovesalainen / fotolia.com)

Huge amounts of data provided the proof

The team analyzed UK biobank data from more than 48,000 people with depression. The researchers were able to show that a higher BMI is also associated with an increased occurrence of depression. This was independent of whether there were other diseases that are often associated with obesity, such as diabetes or hypertension. Even healthy people with increased BMI were found to be more susceptible to depression, according to the research team.

High BMI as a risk factor for depression

The researchers conclude that a higher BMI, regardless of the associated health problems, can be considered a risk factor for the development of depression. According to the scientists, this effect was even more pronounced in women than in men.

Two global health problems complement each other

"Obesity and depression are both global health issues that significantly affect the lives of those affected and cause high healthcare costs," explains Dr. Jess Tyrrell from the University of Exeter in a press release on the study results. The connection has long been suspected. However, it was unclear whether obesity caused depression or vice versa. Furthermore, it was unclear whether the overweight causes the depression or the associated health problems, Tyrrell said.

Depression as a psychological effect of being overweight

"Based on our robust genetic analysis, we conclude that the psychological effects of obesity can cause depression," Dr. Tyrrell. This knowledge is important to be able to take action against depression. Both diseases nourish each other, making it much harder for those affected to adopt healthy lifestyles.

How much does overweight increase the risk of depression??

The research team's gene analysis revealed that overweight men are 18 percent more likely to develop depression. In overweight women, the risk of depression even increased by 23 percent. (Vb)