Possible depression link to belly fat

May 22, 2009 A new study links depression to an accumulation of something called visceral fat. That's deep hidden fat deposits around the abdominal organs. That also results in a greater risk of heart disease and diabetes.

Rush University researchers in Chicago --- in the journal Psychosomatic Medicine say depression is known to increase the risk of heart disease but just how they are connected has been unclear. They say their results suggest this "hidden fat" is an important pathway.

Depression may trigger the accumulation of belly fat by boosting production of the stress hormone cortisol and certain inflammatory compounds in the body.