Restrictive diets, particularly low-calorie and low-nutrient, may lead to an increase in depressive symptoms—especially among men and those with higher body mass index. Digest
Dietary choices affect not only physical health but also mental well-being. While many studies link healthy eating patterns to lower rates of depression, most focus on idealized diets and overlook the various ways people alter their eating habits in everyday life. A recent study found that restrictive diets may increase depressive symptoms, especially in men or those with a higher body mass index.
Researchers examined data from more than 28,000 adults participating in the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey who shared details about their diets and moods. They used statistical techniques to explore how different types of diets—such as low-calorie or low-nutrient diets—were associated with mood and whether these connections differed based on a person’s biological sex or body mass index.
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Adults who followed calorie-restricted diets reported slightly higher depression scores than those not on any specific diet. Among people with overweight, low-calorie diets were associated with a modest increase in depressive symptoms, while low-nutrient diets were linked to an even greater increase. Men on any diet experienced more physical symptoms of depression, such as low energy or sleep changes. Men following nutrient-restrictive diets also reported more issues like sadness and trouble concentrating than women who weren’t dieting.
These findings suggest that restrictive diets may take a mental toll, especially for men and people with overweight. One well-studied strategy for losing weight and improving mood is intermittent fasting. Learn more about intermittent fasting in this episode featuring Dr. Mark Mattson.