Strict Diets Can Lead to Depression, Confirmed by Scientific Research
Low-calorie diets could potentially trigger depressive symptoms, as per research from the University of Toronto. Published in BMJ Nutrition Prevention & Health, this study analyzed data from over 28,000 adult volunteers who had previously taken part in the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey in the U.S.
Dividing participants into dietary patterns groups, researchers found those who adhered to strict calorie restriction were more prone to psychological disturbances. Men and individuals carrying extra weight were notably at higher risk.
Strict diets were also linked to cognitive-affective symptoms, including emotional disturbances, negative thoughts, and other mental health issues. When it came to somatic symptoms like anxiety, tension, and worry, restricting specific nutrients like fats or carbs appeared to be the culprit.
Contradicting earlier studies that proposed a low-calorie diet as a mental health booster, these new findings explain that previous conclusions were often based on clinical trials. Participants in those trials received balanced and carefully planned meals under professional guidance. In reality, many dieters face essential nutrient deficiencies that can negatively impact their mental health.
Additionally, research has revealed the accuracy of fitness trackers in measuring health indicators[1]. As a result, fitness and diet recommendations should be taken with a grain of salt, and individuals should consult professionals for personalized dietary advice.
[1]: Determined how accurately fitness trackers measure health indicators.
- Strict adherence to low-calorie diets, as shown by the University of Toronto's research, may not necessarily improve mental health but, instead, could trigger symptoms of depression and other psychological disturbances.
- The study in BMJ Nutrition Prevention & Health revealed that individuals who closely follow low-calorie diets, particularly men and those carrying extra weight, are more susceptible to mental-health issues, including those related to health-and-wellness and therapies-and-treatments.
- Simultaneously, another study highlighted the importance of essential nutrients in maintaining good mental health, indicating that the restriction of specific nutrients, such as fats or carbs, in a low-calorie diet could lead to cognitive-affective symptoms and somatic symptoms like anxiety, tension, and worry.
