The Trajectory from Mood to Obesity

PURPOSE OF REVIEW: To describe and explain the relationships between mood disturbances and the development of obesity. RECENT FINDINGS: That depression, anxiety, PTSD, or severe stresses can promote obesity as a side-effect of the drugs used to treat them, or through “carbohydrate craving” to enhance brain serotonin synthesis and alleviate dysphoria by consuming foods that are rich in both carbohydrates and fats. That seasonal affective disorder and severe PMS can independently cause patients to overconsume foods rich in both carbohydrates and fats. SUMMARY: The obesity caused by drugs or mood disorders associated with “carbohydrate craving” leading to excess calorie intake can be suppressed by dietary measures.