Even though belly fat seems to link more strongly to depression in men than women, the overall pattern is the same for both — meaning the connection isn’t unique to one sex.

In women, a marker of fat around internal organs is linked to depression or anxiety, but not in men — suggesting men and women may have different biological links between belly fat and mood.

A new way to measure belly shape — called the conicity index — is the best single sign among all body measurements to predict depression or anxiety in middle-aged Taiwanese men, and still a strong sign in women.

People with higher levels of fat-related blood markers (like triglycerides and sugar) are more likely to have depression or anxiety, hinting that metabolic health might be tied to mental health.

How fat is shaped and spread around the belly — not just how big it is — is linked to depression and anxiety, even after accounting for other health factors.

Even after accounting for age, smoking, exercise, and other health problems, belly fat still links to depression and anxiety — meaning the connection isn’t just because of other health issues.