Restrictive dieting linked to increased risk of depression

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A recent study published in BMJ Nutrition, Prevention & Health indicates that calorie restriction, often used for weight loss, may be linked to worsening symptoms of depression. Researchers found that individuals who significantly reduced their daily caloric intake reported higher levels of mood disturbances, including increased sadness, irritability, and fatigue. While calorie control can have physical health benefits, the findings highlight the importance of balancing dietary goals with mental well-being, suggesting that overly restrictive eating patterns may negatively impact psychological health.

Source

Menniti G, Meshkat S, Lin Q, Lou W, Reichelt A, Bhat V. Mental health consequences of dietary restriction: increased depressive symptoms in biological men and populations with elevated BMI. BMJ Nutrition, Prevention & Health. 2025;8:. https://doi.org/10.1136/bmjnph-2025-001167

Additional Reading

https://www.cnn.com/2025/06/03/health/diet-calories-depression-wellness

https://www.healthline.com/health-news/low-calorie-diets-depression-risk-healthy-eating-habits

https://people.com/low-calorie-diets-could-cause-depression-new-study-says-11749363