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Calorie-Restricted Diets Linked to Increased Depression Risk

6/12/2025

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Summary

Story summary

A groundbreaking study in BMJ Nutrition reveals a troubling connection between calorie-restricted diets and rising depression rates among overweight individuals. Analyzing data from over 28,000 participants, researchers found that those on restrictive diets reported higher levels of distress. Experts caution that such diets can undermine mental health by damaging self-esteem and complicating stress management.

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Story summary

A groundbreaking study in BMJ Nutrition reveals a troubling connection between calorie-restricted diets and rising depression rates among overweight individuals. Analyzing data from over 28,000 participants, researchers found that those on restrictive diets reported higher levels of distress. Experts caution that such diets can undermine mental health by damaging self-esteem and complicating stress management.