Feeling depressed on occasion is rarely cause for alarm. If depressive emotions, such as sadness, loneliness or purposelessness, make it difficult for you to function normally, however, you may have a depressive disorder. Additional symptoms of depression include frequent crying, irritability, sleep problems and changes in appetite or weight. Since depression is a major cause of health complications and death, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, seeking effective treatment is vital.
Cause/Effect
Appetite changes and depression often go hand-in-hand. When your depression is active, you may notice that your normally healthy appetite is reduced or even absent. Depression can also cause increased appetite. You may experience frequent cravings for particular foods or feel the need to eat more often. According to a "Today's Dietitian" article from August 2004, written by dietitian Carol Brannon, a diet that is extremely low in nutrients or calories, or a diet based primarily on processed foods, may lead to depression.
Risks/Complications
Appetite changes can affect your physical and emotional wellness in numerous ways. If loss of appetite leads you to eat too little, you may experience nutrient deficiencies, low blood sugar and, as a result, increased depressive symptoms. According to research published in "General Hospital Psychiatry" in 2008, depression may also contribute to obesity. In the study, 4,641 middle-aged women were interviewed extensively. In reviewing their responses regarding emotional health, dietary habits and body weight, researchers concluded that obese women were far more likely to experience severe depressive symptoms than healthy-weight women. While many factors contribute to obesity, depression may play a significant role. If increased appetite triggers overeating and weight gain, your risk for obesity-related health problems, such as hypertension, heart attack, stroke, type 2 diabetes, heart disease and certain forms of cancer, is heightened.
Treatment
Once you've received proper treatment for depression, which may include psychotherapy, medications or a combination of both, your appetite symptoms may alleviate without need for concerted effort. Antidepressants alone may help regulate your appetite, according to San Jose University. To ensure effective treatment, discuss your appetite symptoms with your doctor or psychiatrist. If you are significantly under or overweight or have difficulty adhering to an improved diet, you may require assistance. In some cases, dietary counseling, conducted by a qualified dietary or mental health professional, is included as a component of depression treatment.
Natural Remedies
Lifestyle changes can enhance your recovery during the treatment process and may help prevent relapses of depression and additional appetite problems. The University of Maryland Medical Center recommends that people with depression consume omega-3 fatty acids -- healthy fats that may promote brain function and, as a result, improve your symptoms. Valuable sources of omega-3 fatty acids include fatty fish, such as salmon, tuna and sardines, ground flaxseed and walnuts.
If your appetite is amiss, creating a pleasurable eating atmosphere, preparing comforting foods and drinking liquid "meals," such as protein shakes or soups, can enhance your nutrient and caloric intake. If your appetite is increased, keep tempting, calorie-rich foods out of your home, particularly when your depression is peaked. Fill up on nutritious foods, such as fruit, vegetables, whole grains and lean protein sources, which promote satiation. The National Eating Disorders Association recommends avoiding fad and restrictive diets, which can trigger or worsen depression symptoms.
References
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention: Anxiety and Depression: Effective Treatment Exists
- University of Maryland Medical Center: Depression Facts and Treatment
- "Today's Dietitian"; Depression: What Dietitians Should Know; Carol Brannon, MS, RD, LD; Aug. 2004Carol Brannon, MS, RD, LD; August 2004
- "General Hospital Psychiatry"; Association Between Obesity and Depression in Middle-Aged Women; Gregory E. Simon, MD, MPH et al.; 2008
- San Jose State University: Depression Symptoms and Treatment
- National Eating Disorders Association: Know Dieting: Risks and Reasons to Stop
