Journal of Obesity & Eating Disorders

Description

Depression is linked to an increased risk of cardio metabolic diseases, often mediated by weight gain and associated overeating behaviours. This study investigates food addiction symptoms as a mediator between depressive symptom severity and Body Mass Index (BMI), examining how this relationship varies by appetite profile and sex. In a sample of 628 adults, depressive symptoms were assessed using the centre for epidemiological studies depression scale and food addiction symptoms were measured with the yale food addiction scale. Results indicated that food addiction fully mediated the relationship between depressive symptoms and BMI. Furthermore, an increased appetite significantly moderated this relationship, with no significant differences observed between sexes. These indings highlight the importance of addressing food addiction symptoms in interventions aimed at mitigating weight gain in individuals experiencing depression [1].

Depression is a significant risk factor for various cardiometabolic disorders, including obesity and heart disease, contributing to increased mortality from these conditions. The relationship between depression and cardiometabolic health is complex, with emerging evidence linking weight gain during depressive episodes to heightened morbidity [2]. As the prevalence of weight gain related to depression rises, especially in obesogenic environments, understanding the mediators of this relationship is vital for developing effective health interventions [3].

Role of food addiction in depression

Research indicates that weight gain associated with depression is influenced by behavioural and physiological factors, particularly overeating. The consumption of highly palatable foods, o ten rich in sugar and fat, tends to increase during periods of emotional distress. This behaviour may reflect addiction-like responses, where individuals experience cravings and withdrawal symptoms akin to those seen in substance use disorders. While food addiction is not officially recognized as a formal disorder in major diagnostic manuals, its behavioural characteristics warrant attention, particularly regarding its connection to depression and weight gain [4].

The study utilized a cross-sectional design with a sample of 628 adults. Depressive symptoms were evaluated using the CESD, while food addiction symptoms were assessed via the Yale Food Addiction Scale (YFAS) [5]. Participant demographics, including BMI, appetite profile and sex, were collected through self-report questionnaires. Mediation and moderated mediation analyses were performed to search the relationships among depressive symptom severity, food addiction symptoms and BMI, while also examining the moderating effects of appetite profile and sex [6].

The prevalence of food addiction symptoms in this sample was 21.7%. After controlling for age and exercise levels, food addiction symptoms fully mediated the relationship between depressive symptom severity and BMI [7]. Increased appetite significantly moderated this relationship, with stronger effects observed in individuals reporting higher appetite levels. Although sex did not significantly moderate the mediation effect, males and females exhibited similar food addiction symptom scores [8].

These findings underscore the critical role of food addiction in the exchange between depression and weight gain. The significant mediation effect suggests that food addiction may be a key behavioral risk factor influencing increased adiposity in those with severe depressive symptoms. The pronounced effects in individuals with increased appetite further highlight the need for targeted interventions that address both depressive symptoms and food addiction behaviors, particularly in those displaying heightened appetite [9].

Future research should search longitudinal designs to establish causal relationships and consider the potential impact of interventions that focus on reducing food addiction symptoms in depressed individuals. Additionally, understanding the underlying neurobiological mechanisms linking food addiction and depression could provide further insights into effective treatment strategies [10].

Conclusion

Food addiction symptoms play a significant mediating role in the relationship between depressive symptom severity and BMI. Monitoring and addressing these symptoms may offer valuable pathways for reducing weight gain and improving health outcomes in individuals experiencing depression, particularly for those with increased appetite.

References

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10. Burrows T, Hides L, Brown R, Dayas C, Kay-Lambkin F. (2017) Differences in dietary preferences, personality and mental health in Australian adults with and without food addiction. Nutrients, 9: 285.