16/09/2010

Physical activity and healthy diet can help your mental health

A new study, part-funded by the BHF, has shown that having both depression and coronary heart disease could be more dangerous than having just one of the conditions.

In fact, researchers say if you have both conditions you could be four times more likely to die from heart or circulatory disease.

Our Senior Cardiac Nurse, Amy Thompson, said: “This study builds on previous research which suggests that depression is linked to coronary heart disease.

“Enjoying regular exercise and eating a healthy, balanced diet can help if you are feeling low – so, good news for your mental health as well as your heart health.

“Whether or not you have heart disease, if you feel depressed it’s essential to talk to your doctor.”

The research was published in Heart journal. It came from the Whitehall study which has tracked the mental and physical health of civil servants for many years.

The study - which we've helped to fund - has given us a great deal of insight into how work life and lifestyle can affect your health.