Can poor organ health lead to mental health problems? Here’s what a study reveals

Poor organ health It can have a negative impact Mental health By altering the brain in ways that cause or exacerbate depression and anxietyAccording to a study examining the connection between brain, body and lifestyle. “By analyzing brain imaging and clinical data from more than 18,000 people, we identified multiple pathways in which the brain mediates the link between poor organ health and mental health problems,” explained lead author Ye Ella Tian, ​​a researcher at the University of Melbourne, Australia.

The study focused on organ systems such as the lungs, heart, liver and those related to metabolism and immunity.

The analysis, published in the journal Nature Mental Health, used data from the UK Biobank. Among the more than 18,000 participants studied, more than 10,000 had been diagnosed with a mental health problem, such as depression, anxiety or bipolar disorder.

“In each of the seven organ systems analyzed, we found that poorer organ health was significantly associated with higher levels of depressive and anxiety symptoms,” the authors noted.

While the degree to which the brain mediates the connection between physical and mental health varies across organ systems, the researchers observed that overall, the brain showed a strong mediating effect on organs with significant direct impacts on mental health outcomes, particularly the musculoskeletal and immune systems.

The study also considered lifestyle factors, such as exercise, diet, alcohol consumption, education and socioeconomic status, and how these factors influence mental health through their effects on physical health and the brain.

“We demonstrate that lifestyle factors, such as physical activity, sleep and diet, affect mental health by influencing the physiological functions of multiple organ and brain systems,” the authors said.

They suggested that adopting healthy behaviors related to these factors could significantly improve mental health outcomes for most people.

James Cole from University College London highlighted the importance of the study’s findings. “While it is understood in healthcare that different organs and systems in the body influence each other, this interconnection is often overlooked in scientific research. It is therefore exciting to see a study that emphasises the importance of integrating measures from different parts of the body,” said Cole.

The study provides insight into how poor organ health can contribute to mental health issues and highlights the importance of considering lifestyle factors to promote mental wellbeing. The research shows the need for a holistic approach to health that addresses both physical and mental aspects. Therefore, it is essential to focus on a healthy diet and exercise regularly to keep our health in check.