Weight loss research studies don’t typically include women with major depression, because depression may worsen the outcomes of weight loss programs. That is, depressed women may be less motivated and less likely to lose weight, they’re not regularly included in research about weight loss.
But, a new research study on weight loss that did include women with depression shows that women with major depression are no less likely to drop pounds then women who aren’t depressed! Here’s a brief summary of this research, plus three ways to drop 20 pounds even while taking depression medications. Links to more information about successful, natural weight loss are included at the end of this article.
The Research on Depression in Women and Weight Loss
"We expected women with major depression to lose less weight, attend fewer sessions, eat more calories, and get less exercise than those without depression," said Dr Evette J. Ludman, study leader and Group Health Research Institute Senior Research Associate. "We were surprised to find no significant differences between the women who had depression and those who did not have it."
This research shows that women with major depression are no less likely to drop pounds with a weight loss program than non-depressed women – which is great news for women struggling with both obesity and depression!
The Effects of Weight Loss on Women With Depression
The latest findings from the University of Pennsylvania School of Medicine reveals that weight loss improves mood in people with depression. Depressed, obese individuals can lose clinically significant amounts of weight. Further, weight loss can actually reduce symptoms of depression.
“This research is novel because clinically depressed individuals are not usually included in weight loss trials due to concerns that weight loss could worsen their depression,” said Dr. Lucy Faulconbridge, lead author of the study.
Three Ways to Drop 20 Pounds – Even While Taking Depression Medications
These three ways to lose weight naturally can help improve mood, increase fitness levels, and drop up to 20 pounds.
- Find a weight loss program that fits. Any weight loss program can work if it resonates with women involved. The best way to lose weight naturally is to find a fit between the program and one’s lifestyle. If, for instance, if one’s psychologist also runs a group weight loss program for women with depression in the same place as the counseling sessions, then that would be a natural fit – and an easier way to lose weight.
- Stick to the weight loss program. Many diet and fitness plans are abandoned after a few months, which isn’t enough time to lose 20 or even 10 pounds! Commit to sticking to a program for at least six months. Working out at home can be effective, if the right exercise program is found.
- Deal with the causes of weight gain. Emotional eating, unhealthy relationships, or certain depression medications can not only prevent weight loss, they can cause weight gain. To drop pounds naturally, figure out what the root obstacles to losing weight are.
Depression and weight gain do not have to go hand-in-hand! Women with depression can lose weight naturally and successfully – if they find the right support network and stay motivated for the long haul.
Further Reading About Successful Weight Loss
Adult Weight Loss Camps doesn’t just describe one type of weight loss, it offers seven effective ways to shed pounds for good.
Articles on Weight Loss offers links to information on emotional eating and weight loss motivation that lasts – plus an explanation of why happy pictures on the fridge is a natural way to lose weight!
Source:
Society for the Study of Ingestive Behavior (2009, July 29). “Weight Loss Improves Mood In Depressed People, New Research Shows.”
Laurie Pawlik-Kienlen - Laurie Pawlik-Kienlen is a full-time writer and blogger in Vancouver, BC, and the creator of the Quips and Tips blog series.
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