Depressive symptoms more prevalent in men during restrictive dieting

Restricting the diet could be linked to depression in men.

In a study published in BMJ Nutrition, Prevention & Health, investigators used data from validated questionnaires to analyze the relationship between dietary restrictions and depressive symptoms in both men and women.

The investigators found that although women reported higher dietary restraint, men demonstrated greater associations between dietary restraint and depressive symptoms. Those with a body mass index over 25 were more likely to experience depression during a restrictive diet.

The investigators hypothesized that because men may be more susceptible to deficiencies when following restrictive diets, resulting in poorer brain function and adverse cognitive effects. They concluded that longitudinal studies may help better illuminate the correlation between diet and depression.

Read more: BMJ Nutrition, Prevention & Health

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