The World Health Organization has predicted by the year 2020 Coronary heart disease and depression will be the two top causes of global health burden and disability.
Something that I strive to do in my profession is to simplify studies, and bring the message to a simple common denominator - what can we all do that is easily within our control to avoid the chronic illness. Proactive prevention is absolutely the better choice over seeking a cure.
Numerous studies arrive at a similar belief: Research indicates people who are obese may be more likely to become depressed, and people who are depressed may be more likely to become obese. Nobody ever wants to draw that definitive correlation... but really these findings are not hard to take note of.
The epidemic: Poor nutrition, overnutrition as it is sometimes called although I am personally not a huge fan of that term... and lack of physical activity. We all know,, might not want to admit our personal culpability - but we are aware that poor nutritional choices are one of the bludgeoning crusaders in heart disease, diabetes, many cancers, most chronic illnesses and certainly the leading cause of our obesity epidemic.
Sedentary time: Recognized now as our #1 lifestyle killer - in North America has taken the lead over smoking. We justify our lack of activity on no time - with all of the wonder technology designed to make our lives more comfy, cozy & easier - the truth is they have presented us with the current plague. And yes -the other half of the bludgeoning duo in the obesity epidemic.
December 2012: A Study in the Journal of Medicine and Life titled "Nutrition and Depression at the forefront of progress", the authors wrote that...
"Depression is undeniably linked to nutrition, as suggested by the mounting evidence by research in neuropsychiatry. An adequate intake of good calories, healthy proteins, omega-3 fatty acids and all essential minerals is of utmost importance in maintaining good mental health. In addition, the link between fast food and depression has recently been confirmed."
How bout the more obvious aspect of obesity, lower self esteem, frustration, poor body image... no not in all cases but in many, obesity is not preferred state of health.
We obviously see some common conspirators in obesity and depression. Yes I know this doesn't adhere to the strict model of scientific method, but it really isn't hard to see:
while living an obesogenic life, it is a perfect breeding ground for both depression & heart disease. Therefore, its not a far stretch at all to see how heart disease and depression are escorting each other to the top of the chronic illnesses podium.
Yes obviously there are going to be exceptions to the rule, genetic predispositions for both depression and heart disease, but all of us need to take a good analytical look at what we can do to prevent illness, not have to wait to be struck to seek treatment. Treatment with overly burdened healthcare systems, will continue to become more challenging to get effective thorough treatment in a timely manner.
So again - keeping it simple lets look at a few correlations that we can take charge of to help stave off this impending trend of depression:
Physical activity & exercise (note they are NOT the same) are both required in the prevention and treatment of both heart disease and depression. The release of endorphins, stress reduction, cortisol reduction, testosterone production... a very long list here... yet with all this knowledge, still... physical inactivity is rampant. And again - - going to the gym X number of times per week or going for a run Y number of times per week does not entitle any of us to sit on our... for the rest of the days. exercise and physical activity, desk job or not, is our best (most fun) defence against most of our physical and mental illnesses.
The connections between Obesity-depression-heart disease- diabetes are multidirectional... however the point is in terms of prevention: diabetes, cancer, heart disease, depression, obesity... getting the basics in line, our fitness level and nutritional choices are as always at the center of prevention.
Shira Litwack, Medical Fitness Professional... proud creator of thousands of health enthusiasts & corporate health cultures world wide...
Personal & Telephone/Skype Health Coaching, Lifestyle & Weight Management Health Coach,Fitness & Nutrition for chronic illness recovery & self empowerment, addiction recovery
Radio Talk Show Host/Producer bestinhealthradio
Cancerfitcare Provider & Regional Director
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By Shira Litwack
http://bestinhealthradio.com/BestInHealthRadio.com/Best_In_Health_Radio_-_Health_%26_Fitness.html
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