Irregular Meal Times Linked to Higher Risk of Depression, Study Finds

ISLAMABAD: A new medical study has found that irregular eating habits, including skipping meals and eating at inconsistent times, may significantly increase the risk of developing depression.

Many people often skip breakfast due to busy schedules, delay lunch, snack at irregular hours, or eat dinner late at night. While such habits are common in modern lifestyles, researchers say they can have negative effects not only on physical health but also on mental well-being.

According to the study, published in the Journal of Affective Disorders, meal timing plays a crucial role in maintaining mental health. Researchers found that individuals who do not follow consistent eating schedules are considerably more likely to experience symptoms of depression.

The study analyzed data from more than 21,000 participants collected through surveys between 2014 and 2022. Researchers examined the relationship between regular meal patterns and mental health while also considering factors such as age, gender, income, smoking habits, physical activity, body weight, and other lifestyle variables.

The findings revealed that people with irregular eating schedules face up to a 55 percent higher risk of experiencing depressive symptoms. The risk was found to be particularly high among men, smokers, and individuals who frequently eat late at night.

Researchers also identified a connection between regularly skipping breakfast and an increased likelihood of depression-related symptoms.

The study further noted that diets rich in fruits, vegetables, legumes, beans, dairy products, and protein-rich foods may help reduce some of the negative effects associated with inconsistent meal timings.

Although the research did not specify exact meal times that people should follow, it emphasized the importance of maintaining a consistent eating schedule to support better mental health.