Thursday, March 28, 2024

I Am Fat And Depressed

No More Diets Eat Real Food

I AM SO FAT AND DEPRESSED!!! Life is meaningless. I want to die.

Have you tried being a vegetarian, a vegan, a carnivore, fruit only, macrobiotics, round and round you go, weight watchers, no fat, low fat, and high-fat diets?

How many weight loss programs can you keep trying?

The answer is to give up dieting and start eating real food when you are hungry.

Some refer to eating real food as clean eating.

The term itself is not significant.

What is essential is that you focus on quality food like vegetables, legumes, whole grains, nuts, fruits, and some fish, poultry, and meat if you want for flavor.

You need to shake things up if you want to experience weight loss without suffering.

You cannot keep eating and living the same way if you expect to see different results, as Albert Einstein once said in his definition of insanity.

As soon as you change your eating habits, your body will start to respond.

Get out of your bodys way and let it heal.

The Link Between Depression And Weight

Weight gain and depression can stem from social, environmental, and biological causes, says Roger McIntyre, MD, a professor of psychiatry and pharmacology at the University of Toronto. For example, people with financial insecurity or whoâve had troubled childhoods are at a higher risk of both obesity and depression.

Things in the environment also can play a role for those who live in âfood deserts or food swamps,â McIntyre says. Living amid fast-food joints and convenience stores and far from grocery stores with fresh produce makes it harder to eat healthy.

The depression-weight link cuts both ways. People who are depressed are more likely to be obese. And people with obesity are at higher risk of depression.

Itâs the classic âchicken and egg question,â says Rodrigo Mansur, MD, a psychiatrist at the University of Toronto. Scientists are still trying to parse the complex web of factors behind those relationships.

âIt’s not as simple as people develop depression, they are less motivated to exercise and they eat more, therefore they gain weight,â Mansur says. âThere’s obviously some truth to that. But that is an oversimplification of what actually happens.â

One of the classic symptoms of depression is the loss of interest and pleasure in activities. The clinical name for this is anhedonia. Scientists say it is rooted in the brainâs reward system and can make once enjoyable activities suddenly seem mundane.

How Can I Lose Weight While On Antidepressants

Losing weight is often a struggle, especially when a person is also living with a mood disorder. The causes are multiple. Increased appetite and carbohydrate craving, along with reduced activity level, are common symptoms of depression. And yes, certain antidepressants and other medications may increase appetite. However, most medications do not alter metabolism, per se. Thus, weight loss can still occur when attention is given to other factors, including the composition and timing of dietary intake.

Eating more frequently and smaller amounts, increasing the relative amount of protein eaten , reducing breads and starches, eating a healthful breakfast, and avoiding large meals or snacks late in the evening can provide a more balanced diet throughout the entire day.

If one believes their current efforts to lose weight should be more productive, a consultation with a nutritionist may be helpful. If that isnt possible, keeping a written log of ones consumption may provide clues to problem areas and reinforce better dietary habits. In particular, check out the nutritional content of commonly eaten foods and foods believed to be healthy.

Chronic, low-grade sleep deprivation is another contributor to obesity. Skipping sleep leads to persistently elevated levels of the bodys stress hormone, which can cause elevated blood sugar levels and increased fat stores. Staying up late may also make one more prone to late night snacking.

About the Doc

About the Doc

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Fat Depression And The Brain

Fat tissue can contribute to the problem. Fat cells secrete substances called cytokines that cause inflammation. Chronic inflammation of the brain, which is often found in people who are obese, is also found in those struggling with depression.

Brain imaging studies show that the areas of the brain that are most impacted by obesity tend to be the ones involved in self-control and the regulation of appetite. When these brain regions arent functioning at optimal levels, it can make you more vulnerable to overeating and to giving in to cravings for unhealthy foods, which compounds the problem.

People who are depressed also tend to have markedly increased activity in the limbic areas of the brain, which are involved in setting a persons emotional tone.

Why Is This So Important

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Despite there being a number of demographic variables that could affect the direction and/or strength of this link, including socioeconomic status, level of education, age, gender and ethnicity, a 2010 systematic review highlighted a two-way association between depression and obesity. The review found that people who were obese had a 55% increased risk of developing depression over time, whereas people experiencing depression had a 58% increased risk of becoming obese.

It is estimated that the NHS spent £6.1 billion on overweight and obesity-related ill-health from 2014 to 2015. Failing to address the challenge posed by the obesity epidemic will place an even greater burden on NHS resources. This emphasises the importance of spotting the early signs of disordered eating as well as carefully considering the influence of mental health on obesity.

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Youre Constantly Comparing Yourself To Others

As animals subject to competitive pressures, we have the tendency to constantly compare ourselves to other members of the species. Were sizing each other up, trying to see whats working and what isnt for the other guy, either to gauge our ability to beat them in a had to head match up or to learn from their successes and failures. An animal that wonders about its own existence also has the ability to wonder about how they stack up against other animals. Its a feature and a shortcoming all at once.

As for how this can become a psychological hurdle impeding weight loss, there can be a couple reasons. Ive seen people rushing from dietary change to dietary change based on other peoples experiences without pausing to consider whether those modifications make sense for their situation. Theres nothing wrong with drawing on another persons experience or advice to apply it to your own, but you have to stay abreast of the results. You have to give it a chance to work or to not work.

Theres also the fact that when you look at someone else whos seemingly got it all together, youre only looking at their outward projections. If you could gain access to their inner workings, youd likely find yourself tramping around in puddles of self doubt, self consciousness, and self criticism, just like we all deal with from day to day.

Do I Need Health Insurance To Receive This Service

The referral service is free of charge. If you have no insurance or are underinsured, we will refer you to your state office, which is responsible for state-funded treatment programs. In addition, we can often refer you to facilities that charge on a sliding fee scale or accept Medicare or Medicaid. If you have health insurance, you are encouraged to contact your insurer for a list of participating health care providers and facilities.

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Fat And Depressed Wrapping Up

Do you struggle with obesity and major depressive disorder?

Are you willing to make some lifestyle changes for 12 weeks to see if it can help you?

If you are ready to change, this post is for you.

You might think it is terrible to feel so fat and depressed, but it is a blessing in disguise because your feeling of disgust led you to take action, and now you are here.

So be proud of yourself you can do this!

Alcohol Tobacco And Other Drugs

Overweight And Depressed? (THIS WILL HELP!!) Finch

Misusing alcohol, tobacco, and other drugs can have both immediate and long-term health effects.

The misuse and abuse of alcohol, tobacco, illicit drugs, and prescription medications affect the health and well-being of millions of Americans. SAMHSAs 2020 National Survey on Drug Use and Health reports that approximately 19.3 million people aged 18 or older had a substance use disorder in the past year.

Recommended Reading: Plants That Help With Anxiety And Depression

The Relationship Between Mental Health And Obesity

This month we spoke to Arti Dhokia, Advanced Mental Health and Gastroenterology Dietitian at Priory Hospital Woodbourne, about the relationship between mental health and obesity. Arti specialises in eating disorders, spotting the early signs of disordered eating, weight gain/loss management, and has a particular interest in obesity management.

We explore the links between food and mood, what the signs and symptoms of poor nutrition are and how it is linked to mental health recovery, the effects that mental health medication can have on weight, and what particular foods can help to improve wellbeing.

Im Feeling Stuck Unsure And Depressed Any Advice Welcomed

Cakeums said:You should become a teacher. Or do something in your field/related that will earn money. Or you need to learn how to code and make connections now. The more time you spend in school youre wasting money and everyone elses time including yours.

incogneato said:I am receiving my Master degree in education leadership next month. I have a BS in Sociology and Communication. I wont certification to be a teacher because thats just not my passion.Anyways, what are some career ideas and options for me? Remote or not. I just feel like Im at a stand still and worried about the future and being a educated failure. I am currently a general manager at a franchise café in my small city but looking to move and branch out beyond that by next year summer. Im also 25 and only have had experiences really doing retail and college jobs. Any advice on what direction to head in, jobs that have a masters could benefit me or certifications I could get that could lead me to a good job? Thanks

Also Check: Is My 10 Year Old Depressed

Obesity And Depression: What Is The Relationship

How can being overweight in a person cause depression? What is to blame? Fat cells are the major contributor to the problem. Medical evidence shows that fat cells secrete cytokines that cause inflammation in the brain.

Fat cells secrete substances called cytokines that cause inflammation. The chronic inflammation of the brain, which is often found in people who are obese, is also found in those struggling with depression. Data shows that cytokines have a link to the development of idiopathic major depression.

Brain imaging evidence shows areas of the brain impacted by obesity are the ones involved in appetite regulation and self-control. If the regions of this brain do not function at optimal levels, this makes a person vulnerable to overeating and giving in to cravings, leading to weight gain.

People who feel depressed tend to have increased activity in the brains limbic areas, which is involved in setting the emotions and leads to stress. Obesity and depression feed off each other, and its a vicious cycle that may be hard to control for some.

Obesity Causes Depression

Education journal shows that obese individuals are 25% more likely to experience depression or mood disorders than those who are not. Obesity can cause low self-esteem, poor self-image perception, and contributing factors to depression.

Depression Can Cause Obesity Weight Changes

Antidepressant Medications Can Lead to Weight Gain

The Relationship Between Mental Health And Obesity Is Complex

Sad Fat Quotes. QuotesGram

It has become increasingly clear that obesity may also be a side effect of medications used to manage mental health issues. Increased appetite or overwhelming lethargy can both contribute to undesired weight gain and the associated long-term consequences.

Moreover, the development of co-morbid conditions such as diabetes or joint pain can significantly reduce quality of life. As medication is often an essential element of treatment, diet and lifestyle changes should be first-line interventions for managing weight.

General healthy eating guidelines, although indispensable, may alone not be effective in precipitating change in this patient group. Additional education is often required, to enable patients to develop a greater understanding of the relationship between food and mood, in order to make small but meaningful changes.

For example, serotonin is made from the amino acid tryptophan, which is better absorbed with carbohydrate-rich foods, which goes some way to explain carbohydrate cravings and the excessive consumption of sweet and comforting carbohydrate foods, to boost mood. However, evidence to show that an increase in carbohydrate consumption can improve mood in the long-term, is currently lacking. The short-term reward associated with these foods can contribute to excess weight gain, and consolidate habitual behaviours that patients may struggle to change if no intervention is offered.

Also Check: Can I Get Over Depression On My Own

Depressed Over Pregnancy Weight Gain

Dear Amalah,

Ive been following your advice on alphamom.com and its been wonderful.

Im 30 and having my first child. Im over the moon and so excited to meet him or her. But I am so so unhappy with how I look and how much weight I have gained.

I am only 15 weeks pregnant and have already gained 11 pounds ~ I didnt have morning sickness and so started packing on the pounds from day one.

Im worried as I estimate at this rate by the time Im 30 weeks it will be 22 pounds if not more, and by 40 weeks Ill probably be up to 33 or more as they the last few weeks is when you put on the most weight.

Im having nightmares, crying about it during the day, I havent left the house in over a week and I have given up socializing because I feel so uncomfortable. Im at a loss of what to do.

I will not starve my baby I exercise a minimum of 30 minutes 5/6 times a week I am also very conscious of what I eat, keeping it healthy and natural. I really try to limit my unhealthy snacks!

I cannot see where I am going wrong or why my body is failing me.

Any advice you have for me would be so much appreciated. Im feeling extremely lost and overwhelmed with this all.

Kind regards,T

Weight gain is an inevitable, normal part of pregnancy. Your emotions about it right now, not so much, and you dont have to go through your pregnancy feeling like this.

In addition, here is a list of other resources on prenatal/antenatal depression and anxiety:

Healthier Ways To Weight Loss

So, what should you do if your weight is getting you down, but you’re sick and tired of the crash diets which seem to always lead to losing and gaining the same 10, 20, or 30 pounds?

Firstly, you need to embrace the philosophy that good health is really attributed to a lifestyle you can maintain over time. “If a diet plan gets you to a goal, but you can’t maintain it, it will likely make your weight and emotions yo-yo,” suggests nutritionist Amy Goodson.

We also need to remember that as we age, our metabolism slows down and weight gain can be a normal part of the process that’s why therapist Kimberly Hershenson believes the key to a healthy weight loss is acceptance.

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Do The Best Exercises For Boosting Moods Andmetabolism

The best exercises for people who are both depressed and overweight include those that combine aerobic coordination activities and a social aspect. The aerobic activity boosts blood flow and neurotransmitter activity, and social bonding can help calm overactivity in the brains limbic system to boost your mood. Try these activities:

  • Dancing
  • Basketball

Youre Stuck On What Worked At First Even Though Its Not Working Anymore

Im FAT and will NEVER be SLIM…FEELING WORTHLESS & DEPRESSED

The initial weight loss is a rush. It comes so quickly and so effortlessly that people often assume that doing whatever caused that first big burst of change will work in perpetuity. They become wedded to the initial method, even as it stops working. People tend to do that to identify strongly with a belief or a group, especially if its generally worked very well for them. This identification often persists even when it stops working, or stops working quite so smoothly. Its normal human behavior, but it can still be counterproductive or even destructive.

Maybe early on you didnt have to think about caloric content, but now you should consider it.

Maybe early on you didnt have to exercise much beyond walking, but now you could really benefit from more.

Maybe early on you didnt have to worry about anything but diet, but now you should explore the other important aspects of Primal life.

Also Check: How To Talk To Your Therapist About Depression

Pilgrimage Of Desire: A Path Out Of Walking Depression

My lifes work is to help writers and artists recognize their depression and find healing by making their creative work a priority.

One of the ways I do that is by sharing my own story of depression and recovery in a memoir called Pilgrimage of Desire. The book is interspersed with coaching questions and exercises, which help readers take their own steps toward happiness.

As a young adult, I longed to make my mark on the world as a writer. But after university, I got sidetracked by all the demands of ordinary life.

Soon I joined the ranks of the walking depressed. I was working, volunteering, and looking after my family, but I was also desperately sad.

I found the path out of depression by following my desiresto write, to travel, to become a mother and a creativity coach. Eventually I left ordinary life behind. My husband quit his job and we sold our house and headed out on a trip around the world with our kids, aged five and three. I thought Id found my happy ending, but there was more to the story

Do these signs ring true for you? Have you ever been depressed and kept on walking?

I invite you to share your own experiences in the comments. When you do, please be kind to yourself and others. Kindness is the watchword. To keep this space safe and helpful, I remove comments that are unkind or invalidate other peoples experience of depression.

UPDATE: A video for those who responded to this article when it was first posted in March 2012.

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