Depression, which affects around 280 million people globally, goes beyond just affecting mood—it can also change the way people eat. New research from the University Hospital Bonn (UKB) and the University Hospital Tübingen reveals fascinating insights into the eating habits of individuals suffering from depression. Despite often experiencing a loss of appetite, those with depression have a surprising preference: carbohydrate-rich foods like sweets.

The study sheds light on how depression triggers specific food cravings, particularly for energy-dense foods. People with depression crave carbohydrates more than fats or proteins. Interestingly, when consuming foods high in carbs, they are more likely to develop a liking for fat- and protein-rich foods, such as milk chocolate, that combine both macronutrients. This preference for carbohydrate-rich foods isn’t linked to a stronger appetite but rather to the severity of depression, particularly anxiety symptoms.

Prof. Nils Kroemer, a leading researcher, believes these findings could open new doors for treatment strategies. Since carbohydrates influence brain reward responses differently than fats or proteins, future therapies might target this specific craving pattern. Nutritional therapy could play a key role in managing depression, and early studies suggest that changes to diet—such as fasting or consuming probiotic foods—could have antidepressant effects.

The connection between the brain and gut, known as the gut-brain axis, is also promising for future research. Understanding how food choices impact mental health could lead to innovative treatments that combine both dietary adjustments and psychological therapies for better outcomes in depression.