The following factors all make a difference with presence or absence of depression; therefore, in a recent study these factors were controlled for by grouping participants into like groups:
- medical illness
- dietary factors
- antidepressant use
- physical activity
- social support
The surprising factor that increased the risk for depression and suicide (.2% of the people committed suicide) was the weight of the individual. A decrease in depression and suicide was observed with obese people. Obesity was defined via the body-mass index (i.e. weight and height included in calculation).
Before anyone thinks that "at last! They not only can, but should, eat all the french fries and milkshakes they want", a caveat is noted. Many more studies need to be done, prior to any definitive conclusions. The association between weight and depression is thought to be due to hormones/steroid levels which increased as weight increases. These chemicals may help in maintaining one's mood level, and offer a clue to scientists in the development of more effective treatments for depression.
Mukamal, Kenneth J., et al: Archives of Internal Medicine, March, 2007
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