Depression has long been associated with a variety of physiological symptoms, including joint and muscle pain.  Now a new study out of Hebrew University in Jerusalem has found having the blues is also bad for your bones.

Researchers looked at scientific data on over 20 thousand people and found that there is a clear association between depression and having lower bone density.  Apparently, depression increases the activity of osteoclasts – specialized cells responsible for the breakdown of bone.

This is important because osteoporosis is the most widespread degenerative disease in the so-called “developed countries”. 

One in three women will develop osteoporosis in her lifetime (and one in five men). Young women suffering from depression are actually at the greatest risk, because they are still in peak bone-building years.

So add this to the list of reasons that people who are (or think they maybe) suffering from depression should get medical help.  Symptoms of depression, include:

• Loss of interest in normal daily activities
• Feeling sad or down
• Feeling hopeless
• Crying spells for no apparent reason
• Problems sleeping
• Trouble focusing or concentrating
• Difficulty making decisions
• Unintentional weight gain or loss
• Irritability
• Restlessness
• Being easily annoyed
• Feeling fatigued or weak
• Feeling worthless
• Loss of interest in sex
• Thoughts of suicide or suicidal behavior
• Unexplained physical problems, such as back pain or headaches

  Geralyn Coopersmith, MA, CSCS is an exercise physiologist, certified personal trainer, author of Fit + Female:  The Complete Fitness and Nutrition Game Plan for Your Unique Body Type and the creator of The Best Me Ever, a comprehensive weight loss and wellness system just for women.  It’s a first of its kind program designed to fit into a busy women’s life.  Lose weight and look great — 90 Day Unconditional Money Back Guarantee!!