Previous research has indicated a bidirectional relationship between low-calorie diets and depression among obese individuals. A study was conducted to explore the impact of a low-calorie, high-protein diet on psychometric variables in this population. The findings were published in the journal Nutritional Neuroscience.

Study Overview

In a randomized clinical trial conducted in Iran, participants who met the inclusion criteria were randomly assigned to either the intervention group (which followed a low-calorie diet with an increased protein percentage) or the control group (which maintained a standard protein percentage), utilizing block stratification for randomization. The psychometric characteristics of the participants were subsequently assessed.

Study Results

The study's findings revealed that low-calorie diets with a high protein content can lead to significant improvements in psychometric variables among obese individuals. Specifically, participants who adhered to this diet for 15 days experienced a reduction in symptoms of anxiety and depression. Furthermore, after 30 and 60 days, those on the diet reported lower stress levels.

Additional Information

There were no notable differences in enrollment between the two groups concerning anthropometric variables, body composition, or physical activity levels. Likewise, no significant differences were found in psychological variables (depression, anxiety, and stress) between the groups at the outset.

However, the intervention group exhibited significantly lower scores for depression and anxiety after 15 days of following the diet. After 30 and 60 days, marked differences emerged between the two groups regarding depression, stress, and anxiety, suggesting a notable improvement in psychometric variables for those in the intervention group.

Obesity: What you need to know

The World Health Organization has declared that obesity has reached 'epidemic proportions.' This chronic condition impacts millions globally and has emerged as a significant health concern. Projections from the World Obesity Atlas 2023 indicate that by 2035, over half of the global population—exceeding 4 billion individuals—may be classified as obese or overweight.

Obesity is a multifaceted disease that can manifest at any age, affecting both adults and children. The World Health Organization (WHO) characterizes obesity as an ‘abnormal or excessive accumulation of fat that poses a health risk.’ It is commonly assessed using the body mass index (BMI), with individuals having a BMI of 30 or above categorized as obese. The BMI is determined by dividing an individual's weight in kilograms by the square of their height in meters.

What are its causes and symptoms?

Various factors contribute to the onset of obesity, including genetic predisposition, insufficient physical activity, poor dietary choices, psychological challenges, underlying health issues, socioeconomic factors, medications, and environmental pollutants.

Symptoms associated with excess body weight include challenges in performing physical activities, discomfort in various body regions, and conditions such as osteoarthritis, a degenerative joint disorder. Additionally, obesity can lead to complications such as sleep apnea, which impairs breathing during sleep.

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