It should be no surprise that depression and weight gain go hand in hand. For many experiencing depression, it can impact nearly every aspect of their lives right down to their eating habits. While some overeat or undereat, both extremes can lead to a wide array of health issues. Thankfully, there are revolutionary treatments available for depression such as ketamine and infusion therapy, but does ketamine help with weight gain and depression? To ensure we provide the best information for your mental health, we will discuss the risks of depression and weight issues and whether or not a ketamine treatment is best for you.
Weight Gain & Depression
While it may seem obvious, the link between weight gain and depression has stirred an ongoing debate. In many cases, it is difficult to discern if weight gain is a byproduct of depression or if increased weight may lead to mental health issues. However, we do know that depression can cause appetite disturbances and a lack of motivation which can certainly affect someone’s weight. Moreover, decreased energy is also another concerning factor that can lead to more weight gain. To shed some light on this topic, researchers from the University of Alabama at Birmingham in 2009 determined that individuals experiencing depression gain weight more quickly than those without depression. This self-destructive cycle can lead to a number of physical and mental health issues.
Depression Risks
The risks for depression can greatly vary from person to person. Depression is a mood disorder that is caused when neurotransmitters are unbalanced in the brain. Typically, neurotransmitters send vital messages throughout the body and help regulate your mood. Low amounts of neurotransmitters such as serotonin, dopamine, and norepinephrine can lead to depression which can affect your mood, motivation, and other everyday functions. Depression has also been linked to sleep disorders and serious health issues such as heart disease, stroke, diabetes, cancer, and much more. And when obesity and depression are both a factor, they can put you at even greater risk.
Weight Gain Risks
Aside from depression, excessive weight gain can drastically impact your health. Nearly every aspect of your life can be affected. From breathing problems, such as sleep apnea, to high blood pressure, obesity is a national health concern that must be addressed with a healthy diet and exercise. Left unchecked, weight gain can lead to heart disease, stroke, diabetes, osteoporosis, cancer, and many other issues. Unfortunately, some antidepressants have side effects that cause weight gain such as Zoloft, Lexapro, and Celexa. Thankfully, there are treatments like ketamine and infusion therapy that can help turn the tide of weight gain.
Does Ketamine Help with Weight Gain & Depression?
While ketamine infusion therapy does not directly cause weight loss, it does not encourage weight gain. In addition, when patients are able to come off medications and experience better moods, they are more prone to leading a healthier lifestyle. Those under ketamine and infusion therapy have noted that their unusual cravings either lessened or stopped entirely. In addition, the treatment has been linked to helping many other issues, including nausea, erectile dysfunction, loss of libido, insomnia, increased anxiety, agitation, and more.
At Mindscape Ketamine & Infusion Therapy, we provide revolutionary and effective treatments for depression, anxiety, OCD, PTSD, migraine, and chronic pain conditions. Call or schedule an appointment today to experience a new standard in mental health treatments.