By Elizabeth Barker
New research shows that women with higher levels of leptin—a hormone that helps control appetite—may be less likely to suffer from depression and anxiety. Presented at the Endocrine Society’s annual meeting earlier this year, a study of 64 women found that the link between leptin and depression was not related to whether subjects were overweight.
While there are no known ways to pump up leptin levels, certain dietary and lifestyle changes might boost the brain’s uptake of leptin, says Pasadena-based dietitian Jill Place, R.D. Since fructose may block leptin uptake, for instance, minimize processed foods with added sugar or high-fructose corn syrup and limit your fruit intake to three or four servings a day. High levels of triglycerides (a type of blood fat) may also hinder leptin uptake, says Place. To keep triglyceride levels in check, watch your intake of saturated fat and choose whole grains over refined. “Physical activity can help get leptin to the brain as well, so make sure to work out on a regular basis,” Place adds.
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