Weight Loss Surgery Benefits on Depression

Obesity is associated with a variety of dangerous health conditions include high cholesterol, diabetes and depression. Bariatric surgery not only helps patients lose weight, but also treat their various medical conditions. Depression has been proven to lead to the diagnosis of other medical conditions in the body such as high blood pressure. The treatment of diabetes through the use of Bariatric surgery can lead to dramatic and positive results for patients.

Depression & Weight

Ultimately, when one loses weight, their mental health seems to become more positive. Not only is a patient taking control of their life, but seeing a chance in the way they look leading to a better self-image. According to a Journal of Obesity study, obese patients are more likely to experience anxiety, mood disorders and low self-esteem. The study reports that morbidly obese patients are more than 5 times more likely to suffer from a depressive episode then their non-obese counterparts. It is believe that dissatisfaction with one’s body leads to symptoms of depression, especially in overweight and obese women. The study also explores the idea that these individuals experience discrimination and prejudice, which also can aggravate already present depression symptoms in patients.

Physical Activity and Influence on Depression in Patients

According to a University of Pittsburgh Graduate School of Public Health study published in the Journal of Psychosomatic Research, even limited amounts of physical activity is linked to lower rates of depression in patients of weight loss surgery. After extreme weight loss occurs as a result of weight loss surgery, a patient can move around more freely and comfortably. This allows patients to become more activity and the study shows that even a small amount of physical activity can lead to improvement in a patient’s mental state.

The study shows that even just one hour of moderate-intense physical activity a week decreased depression or anxiety in patients by more than 92%. Just 4,750 steps daily (less than half of the recommended 10,000 daily) reduced the risk of anxiety or depression by 81% just by walking. The study believes that just by moving the patients felt better and lived a happier life.

Whether or not it is believed that activity can reduce depression levels in patients, it has proven to help them lose more weight during their lifestyle change. This weight management tool not only will continue patients down their path to good health, but also will improve their mental health as well. Seems like a win-win.