Studies Confirm Link of Low Fat Diets With Depression and Impulsive Behavior

Low fat diets have been associated with increased risks of depression and suicide. This correlation was first noticed decades ago. While going over data in a study of heart disease, researchers where surprised to find that individuals with the lowest cholesterol levels had increased incidences of deaths from suicide, violence and accidents. Since these initial findings, several studies have confirmed a link to low fat diets with depression and impulsive behavior.

The Link to Serotonin

It is thought that low fat diets affect serotonin levels in the brain. However, it is not clear exactly how low fat diets disrupt the serotonin balance. Serotonin is a neurotransmitter that works to inhibit impulsive behavior. It is often found that individuals with abnormal serotonin function have thoughts of suicide and impulsive, hostile behavior.

The Importance of Dietary Fats

Dietary fats are necessary for the proper functioning of all the cells of the body. Brain cells are no exception. Eating a diet that lacks sufficient healthy fats will negatively affect how you look and feel. It is possible that individuals vary in their dietary fat requirements. However, if you have been on a low fat diet and are experiencing dry skin and hair or mood problems, you may want to consider adding more dietary fats back into your diet.

SourcE: http://www.fitday.com/fitness-articles/nutrition/fats/do-low-fat-diets-affect-your-mood.html#b