The body mass index (BMI) and depression have long been observed to be together. While BMI is a common way to estimate the body fat, it does not distinguish between fat and muscle mass, nor does it highlight where the body fat is stored. This difference is important, as emerging research suggests that the location of fat can greatly affect mental health.

A recent study published in the Journal of Efficient Disorder, under the leadership of researchers Venjun Gu, Kunming Bao, Ziaoming Lee, Shohang Jiang, Juhano Hey, Gining Hey, Lixine, and Jhidong Huang, have thrown new lights on this connection. According to their findings, specific distribution of body fat – not only the overall zodiac sign – plays an important role in the possibility of developing symptoms of depression.

What study revealed

Researchers analyzed data from 10,694 adults participating in the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES). Participants scanned a wide full-body, which measures fats, muscles and bone density in eight body areas: legs, hands, trunk, head, android (stomach), genoids (hip and thighs), sub-groups (except head), and total body.

To assess the symptoms of depression, individuals were asked to complete a comprehensive questionnaire. He also provided information about his lifestyle habits, medical history, socio -economic status and various biological markers.

The results were amazing. The high overall body fat was associated with a higher risk of signs of depression. However, fat is very important in distribution. The possibility of depression increased in the legs, gyneoid regions (hips and thighs) with high fat concentrations and sub -regions. Even people with high fat percentage in the head area had a slight risk.

Gender difference

Interestingly, the study also found that there was more clear between body fat and depression in men than women. This suggests that biological sex can affect how body fat affects mental health, possibly due to hormonal or metabolic differences.

Why does it matter

Understanding that the type and location of body fat in the body can affect mental health, opens new avenues for prevention and treatment strategies. This emphasizes the importance of maintaining a healthy weight, but also a balanced body structure.

Simple weight loss strategy for better mental health

Through a change in healthy lifestyle, managing body fat can improve both physical and mental welfare. Here are some easy weight loss strategies with which anyone can start:

Priority to the entire foods: Focus on fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins and healthy fats rich in nuts and olive oil.

Stay hydrated: Drinking lots of water can promote metabolism and help control hunger.

Include daily movement: Even walking for 30 minutes a day can lead to a big difference.

Shakti training: The creation of muscles through strength practice can improve the structure of the body and promote mood.

Get enough sleep: Bad sleep is associated with both weight gain and depression. Get 7-9 hours of quality sleep every night.

Practice Mindful Eating: Paying attention to signs of appetite and avoiding emotional eating can lead to better weight management.

Reduce processed foods: Cut on sugars snacks, fast food, and sophisticated carbs that can contribute to fat accumulation and mood.

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