Obesity Linked To Poorer Mental Health: New Study, Australia

Main Category: Obesity / Weight Loss / Fitness
Also Included In: Mental Health;  Psychology / Psychiatry;  Anxiety / Stress
Article Date: 24 Jan 2011 - 3:00 PDT


A new Australian study has found middle-aged Australians carrying excess weight are more likely to be anxious and depressed than their healthy weight counterparts1.

Queensland-based researchers collected data on the physical and mental health of more than 1,200 volunteers, grouping them according to their weight and mental health.

Obese participants, who were aged 45 to 54 years, were more likely to report that emotional problems had affected their work or social activities, and were less likely to have felt calm and peaceful in the month prior to the study, compared with normal weight and overweight participants.

The research comes as the nation's dietitians launch Australia's Healthy Weight Week (23-30 January), to promote how being a healthy weight helps people live life to the full.

Dietitians Association of Australia Spokesperson Lisa Renn said carrying too much weight affects physical health and poorer health is linked with anxiety, depression and lower levels of wellbeing.

'If you're carrying too much weight, odds on you're more anxious or depressed than you need to be. Losing this weight is associated with a better quality of life, improved mood, better self-esteem, and a more positive attitude to life. So eating better food and being active will help you feel healthy and happy,' said Ms Renn.

She said a 5-10 per cent reduction in weight from a baseline starting weight can make all the difference.

'If you're 100kg, losing 5-10kg will pay off. So for a healthier, happier 2011 kick-start the year with some small changes, which will add up over time,' said Ms Renn.

The Dietitians Association of Australia's tips for 'feeling tops':

- Start with the right fuel. A healthy breakfast can help you think clearer, concentrate better and feel more energetic. It will also make you less likely to overeat later in the day.

- Move to feel good. Moving is a trigger for your body to release feel-good hormones (endorphins). The more you move the better you will feel, so look for every opportunity to get more active.

- Become a 'mindful eater'. Before reaching for food, think about whether you're really hungry - or eating for another reason. And slow down while you're eating. Studies suggest people who eat too quickly have a greater risk of being overweight.

- Get fishy. Healthy fats, such as those found in oily fish (like salmon, tuna and mackerel), grains and some plant oils (such as sunflower and safflower oil) may improve mood.

- Recruit a support team. Find at least one person (friend, family member, work colleague, health professional) who will support and cheer you on. Contact an Accredited Practising Dietitian for expert advice and support.

Background: Australia's Healthy Weight Week

- Australia's Healthy Weight Week (AHWW) is a time for all Australians to eat better, feel better and move more. It is an initiative of the Dietitians Association of Australia (DAA) and will run from January 23-30, 2011.

- Australia's report card on weight is one of the worst in the world, with 61 per cent of Australian adults and 25 per cent of children overweight or obese.

- AHWW encourages Australians to seek expert nutrition and weight loss advice from an Accredited Practising Dietitian (APD). APDs work with people to develop personalised eating plans and support and motivate people to make diet changes for life.

1. Morris J, Koehn S, Happell, B et al. Implications of excess weight on mental wellbeing. Australian Health Review 2010; 34: 368-74.

Source:
Dietitians Association of Australia (DAA)

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