Stress- and PTSD-associated obesity and metabolic dysfunction: a growing problem requiring further research and novel treatments

Metabolism. 2014 Dec;63(12):1463-8. doi: 10.1016/j.metabol.2014.08.009. Epub 2014 Aug 28.

Abstract

Posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is a growing public health concern. More recently, evidence has indicated that PTSD leads to obesity and associated metabolic dysfunction. Possible mechanisms of this link are through dysfunction of the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis and related moderation of appetite hormones and neural activity, leading to changes in consumptive behaviors. Although research has been examining associations between PTSD and obesity, diabetes, cardiovascular disease, and metabolic syndrome, future research should delineate potential mechanisms for these associations and develop targeted treatments to reduce these metabolic outcomes.

Publication types

  • Editorial
  • Research Support, N.I.H., Extramural

MeSH terms

  • Humans
  • Metabolic Diseases / etiology*
  • Metabolic Diseases / psychology
  • Metabolic Syndrome / complications
  • Obesity / etiology*
  • Obesity / psychology
  • Stress Disorders, Post-Traumatic / complications*
  • Stress, Psychological / complications*