In a bad mood? Do you figure that’s just the way it is and you’ll have to deal until you snap out of it? You might want to consider recent research by the Society for the Study of Ingested Behavior. Their research indicates that overweight, depressed individuals who experience weight loss actually experience mood improvement along with the weight loss.
51 participants took part in a 6 month study. Some were depressed and some were not depressed. All participants followed a supervised weight loss program. The program was based on lifestyle modifications (and participants were given meal replacements). Weight loss varied but the average weight loss for depressed participants was 8%. And the average weight loss for non-depressed study participants was 11%.
Unhealthy weight and depression are both risk factors for heart disease and stroke. So the successful alleviation of both simultaneously offers huge health benefits to those suffering from both. Weight loss and improved mood in a depressed individual will undoubtedly lead to be better general health for the long term.
The better mood as a benefit of weight loss is a very desirable benefit for many. But it’s not the only one that comes with weight loss. Depressed participants of the study also saw a decrease in triglycerides. Since they, too, are a common risk factor for both stroke and heart disease their reduction served as another health benefit in favor of weight loss.
Weight loss experts often hear testimonials from weight loss success stories featuring comments on better mood, increased energy, increased zest for life, increased activity levels and more. These common phrases indicate a mood change in comparison to the mood of the individuals prior to losing weight.
Weight loss is a definite health benefit for depressed individuals as it offers a mood improvement. But many are urging further study into the benefits of weight loss to those with mental disorders and extreme mental issues including/regarding: anxiety, extreme lack of confidence, panic disorder, debilitating negative self image, etc. Tentative benefits are being discussed with definite intentions to study them further to actually define links between weight loss and mental health improvement.
Weight loss is generally a good choice for treatment for individuals who are at an unhealthy weight because its health benefits are wide and varied. The decrease in risks for common illnesses and diseases alone makes it beneficial for a large majority. When the health benefits are taken into consideration on top of the decreased risks for negative health it is a sure bet that weight loss will be a good addition to the health regime of many.
Individuals who successfully lose weight and maintain it for the long term also report that weight loss changed their lives in many ways including: better quality of life, increased energy, increased productivity (in their professional and personal life), and increased desire to be active. This common conclusion indicates that weight loss is…in essence one of the best ways to improve general health, mental health and emotional health. And it’s all natural.
