clipped from www.healthday.com
Obesity and depression often go hand-in-hand in middle-aged women, a new U.S. study found.
The research collected information on the height, weight, dietary and exercise habits, and body image of 4,641 women, ages 40 to 65, enrolled in a health plan. The women also completed a questionnaire used to measure depression symptoms.
Women with clinical depression were more than twice as likely to be obese (a body mass index of 30 or more), and obese women were more than twice as likely to be depressed, the study found.
It also found that women with BMIs of 30 or higher exercised the least, had the poorest body image, and consumed 20 percent more calories than women with lower BMIs.
The study was published in the January/February issue of the journal General Hospital Psychiatry.
Complete article here
Technorati Tags: Obesity – depression – middle-aged women
Hi Elaine,
Isn’t it amazing how long it takes for these researchers to finally come up with the obvious? Or am I being too cynical here?
I find this article depressing. : )
Hi Elaine,
How’s your daughter and new the new baby? Congratulations1 Happy New Year!
Your article here makes me believe that obesity takes a huge toll on the body and throws your chemical balances way off. Also, the depression may also be linked to psychological effects of a poor self image. There’s a lot to be said for healthy living. My wife and I attend Weight Watcher’s and there are folks there who just don’t get it. Instead of using this as an opportunity to eat healthy foods and change their habits, they’ll eat only two slices of pizza instead of four and wonder why they aren’t losing weight. Thanks for the article. -Mike.
Kirk - can always count on you for the ‘right to the point cynic’ comments. And NO you’re not!
Laoch – obesity is depressing
Mike - Daughter and baby are doing great! Thanks for asking. I agree self image plays a big role here! No matter what a person tells you I can’t believe they are happy when carrying around 100+ extra pounds. Glad to hear you and your wife are still hanging in there with Weight Watchers and staying committed
Elaine,
I am with Kirk on how so many reports simply state the obvious.
I agree with Laoch that the article is depressing.
Being in the 50′s has some great advantages, but it is also means that most of us have to be sure to eat right, and exercise, contributing to our well-being.
Love and hugs,
Beth