Weight Loss Doesn't Necessarily Make You Happy, Study Finds

Losing weight may have a positive effect on physical health but doesn't guarantee similar effects on mental health, a new study finds.

Many studies have found that people who lose weight feel good about themselves. However, a new study by researchers from University College London found that this may not always be the case.

"We do not want to discourage anyone from trying to lose weight, which has tremendous physical benefits, but people should not expect weight loss to instantly improve all aspects of life," said lead author Dr Sarah Jackson (UCL Epidemiology & Public Health), in a press statement. "Aspirational advertising by diet brands may give people unrealistic expectations about weight loss. They often promise instant life improvements, which may not be borne out in reality for many people. People should be realistic about weight loss and be prepared for the challenges.

The study used data from the English Longitudinal Study of Ageing, a U.K. study including 1,979 overweight and obese adults aged 50 or older. None of participants were diagnosed with clinical depression or a debilitating illness. The researchers used standard questionnaires to assess each individual's depressed mood and overall wellbeing. Trained nurses also measured the participant's weight.

Researchers noted that 14 percent of the participants lost at least 5 percent initial body weight with a mean weight loss of 6.8kg per person. After all influencing factors were taken into consideration; researchers found that such participants were 78 percent more likely to report depressed moods.

"Resisting the ever-present temptations of unhealthy food in modern society takes a mental toll, as it requires considerable willpower and may involve missing out on some enjoyable activities," the study author said. "Anyone who has ever been on a diet would understand how this could affect wellbeing. However, mood may improve once target weight is reached and the focus is on weight maintenance. Our data only covered a four year period so it would be interesting to see how mood changes once people settle into their lower weight."

"Healthcare professionals should monitor patients' mental as well as physical health when recommending or responding to weight loss, and offer support where necessary. People who are trying to lose weight should be aware of the challenges and not be afraid to seek support, whether from friends, family or healthcare professionals," she added.

The study also highlights the need to consider mental health alongside physical health while losing weight. Researchers also confirmed that this study doesn't aim at discouraging weight loss or debunking the health benefits associated with losing weight. Participants that lost weight experienced a reduction in blood pressure and serum triglycerides, reduction in the risk of heart diseases and reduced risk of diabetes.

Findings of the study were published online in the journal PLOS ONE. The project was funded by the National Institute on Aging and a consortium of U.K. government departments coordinated by the Office for National Statistics.

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