Researchers analysed data from more than 28.000 U.S. adults and compared their reported diets with mental health scores. People following calorie- or nutrient-restrictive diets had higher rates of depressive symptoms, with the effect strongest in men and those who were overweight.
- 8% of participants reported notable depressive symptoms.
- Calorie restriction was linked with higher PHQ-9 depression scores, among overweight participants, the increase was even bigger.
- Men showed the strongest effects.
The average difference was small, about 0,29 points on the PHQ-9 scale (0–27) but consistent across the large sample, suggesting it wasn’t random. In overweight participants the jump was closer to half a point, hinting at a stronger effect.
Not just the legs, the mind suffers too
The differences weren’t huge, but they were consistent and they highlight that cutting calories in real life often means missing nutrients and battling the stress of weight cycling. For cyclists, that could mean more than just flat legs. It could mean flat motivation, low energy, and a creeping loss of joy in riding.
The research team noted: “Real-life calorie-restricted diets and obesity often result in nutritional deficiencies (particularly in protein, essential vitamins/minerals) and induce physiological stress, which can exacerbate depressive symptomatology.”