INFOGRAPHIC

What You Eat May Increase Risk of Depression

By Amanda Doyle
Reviewed by Claudia Levi, R.N.
April 01, 2025
Did You Know? Obesity increases the risk of depression. Researchers say that one reason for this may be diet. A high-sugar, high-fat diet increases inflammation in the body. And it may be why obesity and depression are connected. Source: Fulton S., et al. The menace of obesity to depression and anxiety prevalence. (2022) Trends in Endocrinology and Metabolism.

What you eat affects more than just your body’s physical health, research suggests. Eating a high-sugar, high-fat diet can contribute to obesity and may also cause changes in the body that contribute to depression.

To help care for both your physical and mental health, try to eat a balanced diet full of nutritious foods you love.