Dear Lynn:

I am being treated for depression with a variety of medications, which have made me lose my appetite. Since I am also overweight, I'd like to try to lose weight by eating well, rather than not at all. Any suggestions? Thanks,
Pearl

Dear Pearl:

Many medications used to treat depression can cause changes in appetite. Sometimes people find they lose their appetite and start to lose weight, and sometimes people find themselves hungrier than usual and gaining it. It's important to eat a healthy diet despite the medications, both to control weight and to assist in treating depression.

When someone complains of lack of appetite and no interest in food, I suggest that they develop an eating schedule. For example, schedule times for meals and snacks, then stick to this schedule as you would a work schedule. Meals should include

• some form of complex carbohydrate such as whole-grain bread or crackers, whole-grain cereal, or rice or pasta;
• fresh fruit and cooked or raw vegetables; and
• a good source of protein such as eggs, poultry, fish, legumes, tofu or tempeh, peanut butter, dairy products or red meat.

Don't eat large portions of any of these foods, but do include all three in each meal. Avoid "empty" foods such as chips, cookies, candy and soft drinks.

Sometimes using a beverage as a meal replacement is easier to swallow. Whip up a blender drink consisting of yogurt or milk (cow's milk and soymilk work equally well), fresh or frozen fruit, and fruit juice. Use this blender drink in place of a meal only once each day, so you keep your body used to eating solid foods.

Most people find that once they get used to this eating schedule, they have more energy and feel better about themselves. They also may find that they are becoming interested in food again. Exercise and a healthy diet often are essential components of a treatment plan for depression as well as important for weight control.

Sincerely,

Lynn Grieger, R.D., C.D., C.D.E.