A groundbreaking new study published in JAMA Network Open has uncovered a startling connection between metabolic biomarkers and the risk of developing anxiety, depression, and stress-related disorders. The research, which analyzed data from over 211,000 participants, found that higher levels of blood sugar and triglycerides were associated with an increased risk of these mental health conditions, while higher levels of “good” cholesterol appeared to offer a protective effect.

The study’s findings have significant implications for the prevention and treatment of mental health disorders. By identifying individuals at risk through metabolic biomarkers, doctors may be able to provide early intervention and improve outcomes.

According to Dr. Alex Dimitriu, MD, double board-certified in psychiatry and sleep medicine, “This was an interesting study. High levels of glucose and triglycerides and low levels of (healthy) HDL protein were associated with increased risk of depression, anxiety and stress-disorders… Elevations in glucose and triglycerides as well as lipid abnormalities, may be associated with autonomic dysregulation (high cortisol states). These markers may also be signs of elevated inflammation, which has also been associated with mental health conditions.”

The study’s researchers followed participants for an average of 21 years, tracking the development of anxiety, depression, and stress-related disorders. They found that higher levels of blood sugar and triglycerides were associated with a higher risk of these conditions, while higher levels of “good” cholesterol were linked to a lower risk.

However, some experts caution that the study’s findings may not be generalizable to other populations. Dr. Cheng-Han Chen, MD, board-certified interventional cardiologist, noted, “As with all observational studies, the direction of causality cannot be determined; it might be that people at risk for developing depression and anxiety have underlying physiology that effect metabolic changes which increase glucose and triglyceride levels. The results might also be confounded by attributes such as obesity or physical inactivity that might relate both abnormal glucose/triglycerides and also the risk of developing depression and anxiety. For now, these findings highlight the complex relationship between cardiovascular risk factors and mental health.”

While more research is needed to confirm the study’s findings, one thing is clear: the connection between metabolic biomarkers and mental health cannot be ignored. By acknowledging this link, we may be able to develop new strategies for preventing and treating mental health disorders, and improving outcomes for those affected.

Meanwhile, if you find that your mental health is strong but you still have high cholesterol, there are plenty of things that you can do — and the first step is acknowledging that help is out there.