Diet & Sadness: Men’s Mental Health
Low-calorie diets could be linked to a greater risk of depressive symptoms, especially for men and those who are overweight. new research published in BMJ Nutrition Prevention & Health analyzed data from nearly 30,000 adults, revealing that calorie-restrictive and nutrient-restrictive diets correlate with heightened depressive symptoms. This study challenges prior beliefs, suggesting that poorly designed low-calorie diets—frequently enough lacking crucial omega-3s and vitamin B12—may exacerbate mental health issues. The study highlights the importance of balanced nutrition, particularly for men. This news from News Directory 3 underscores the intricate link between what we eat and how we feel. Further research will clarify these connections, and it’s essential to consult with a healthcare professional for any dietary or mental health concerns. Discover what’s next in understanding these crucial dietary impacts.
Low-Calorie Diets Linked to Increased Depression Risk
Updated June 7, 2025
A new study published in BMJ Nutrition Prevention & Health indicates that following a low calorie diet might potentially be associated with a higher risk of depressive symptoms. The research suggests this effect may be especially pronounced in men and individuals who are overweight.
Researchers analyzed data from 28,525 adults who participated in the US National Health and Nutrition Examination survey (NHANES) between 2007 and 2018. The survey included a questionnaire assessing the severity of depressive symptoms.
The study participants were categorized based on their dietary habits, including whether they were on a calorie-restrictive diet, a nutrient-restrictive diet (low in fat, cholesterol, sugar, salt, fiber, or carbs), or an established dietary pattern (such as a diabetes-focused diet). The majority (87%) reported not following any specific diet.
The findings revealed that individuals on calorie-restrictive diets had slightly higher scores on the depression symptom questionnaire compared to those not on a diet. This association was stronger among overweight individuals. Nutrient-restrictive diets were also linked to increased depressive symptoms.
The researchers noted that these results contrast with some previous studies that suggested low-calorie diets could improve depressive symptoms. They explain that carefully designed, balanced diets used in controlled trials may differ significantly from real-world calorie-restricted diets, which can lead to nutritional deficiencies and physiological stress.
The study also found some gender-based differences.Nutrient-restrictive diets were associated with higher cognitive-affective symptom scores in men compared to women. All three diet types (calorie-restrictive, nutrient-restrictive, and established) were associated with higher somatic symptom scores in men.
“This study adds to the emerging evidence linking dietary patterns and mental health, raising critically important questions about whether restrictive diets which are low in nutrients considered beneficial for cognitive health, such as omega-3 fatty acids and vitamin B12, may precipitate depressive symptoms,” said Professor Sumantra Ray, Chief Scientist and Executive Director of the NNEdPro Global Institute for Food, Nutrition and Health.
What’s next
Further research is needed to confirm these findings and to better understand the relationship between restrictive diets and mental health. Future studies should focus on accurately capturing dietary intake and minimizing potential confounding factors, according to the researchers.