Editorial Team
... Read More
By clicking “Accept All Cookies”, you agree to the storing of cookies on your device to enhance site navigation, analyze site usage, and assist in our marketing efforts. Cookie Policy.
Written By: Editorial Team | Published : October 14, 2014 8:15 PM IST
There is no association between physical activity (PA) and the development of depressive symptoms later on in adolescence, a study has found. Physical activity has been cited as a way to reduce the risk of depression but the evidence is not clear-cut. 'Our findings do not eliminate the possibility that PA positively affects depressed mood in the general population; rather, we suggest that this effect may be small or non-existent during the period of adolescence,' said the researchers. (Read: First biomarker boon for teens with clinical depression)
'Although PA has numerous benefits to physical health in later life, such positive effects may not be expected on depressive outcomes during adolescence,' they added. The study involved 736 participants (average age 14.5 years) and was conducted from November 2005 to January 2010. The authors used physical activity energy expenditure and moderate and vigorous physical activity measures. (Read: Depression in your teens could ruin your lovelife forever)
They found no association between the levels of physical activity at 14 years of age and depressive outcomes at 17 years of age. The study appeared in the journal JAMA Pediatrics. (Read: Teenage girls more prone to depression)
Here are 5 facts you didn t know about depression
1. Depressed people have smaller brain parts
Scientists have found that people who tend to suffer from depression have a smaller hippocampus (brain part responsible for controlling emotions and memory). The reason behind this is not very clear. However, the researchers have speculated that a stress hormone, cortisol that releases in higher amounts in the brain of the depressed people may have a shrinking effect on the hippocampus. They have also found that people who are born with a smaller hippocampus are also likelier to suffer from the condition.
2. Depression is linked with inflammation
Scientists have found a link between depression and inflammation. They have theorised that chronic inflammation associated with some diseases may lead to depression. To validate their findings, experts administered endotoxin (drug that help stimulate inflammation) to healthy people and found the onset of depressive behaviour among these individuals. Read more about 5 facts you didn t know about depression
With inputs from IANS
Photo source: Getty images
Follow us on Facebook and Twitter for all the latest updates! For daily free health tips, sign up for our newsletter.
