Favorable Lifestyle Behaviors Can Aid in Reversing Postpartum Depression

Lifestyle factors such as – sleep, sedentary behavior, physical activity (PA), or exercise, and diet can influence the risk of postpartum depression (PPD) or serve as treatment options for those diagnosed with PPD. A new narrative review aimed to summarize existing research on the potential impact of these four key lifestyle behaviors on PPD.

The research selected studies published in English after 2000 – from PubMed, including observational studies, systematic reviews, meta-analyses, and randomized controlled trials––with over 50 participants.

The finding suggested that quality sleep and PA or exercise during pregnancy and the postpartum period may reduce PPD risk or alleviate symptoms. However, data on dietary interventions for PPD are inconsistent. While extensive evidence supports vitamin D supplementation, findings for other vitamins, nutrients, and minerals are inconclusive. Research on the link between sedentary behavior and PPD is limited.

Further high-quality research on the relationship between sedentary behavior and PPD is necessary. Healthy lifestyle behaviors, either alone or combined with other evidence-based strategies recommended by healthcare providers, can be effective preventive measures and treatments for PPD during pregnancy and postpartum.

Several studies have linked poor sleep quality, greater sleep disturbances, sleep latency, perceived stress, and psychological distress during pregnancy to an increased risk of PPD. Poor sleep quality during late pregnancy is particularly associated with PPD, independent of psychological distress and perceived stress. Similar conclusions were drawn for sleep quality in the postpartum period. Further, actigraphic sleep measures were not associated with depressive symptoms. Limited research exists on the effectiveness of sleep interventions for PPD.

Evidence suggests that regular exercise and PA can reduce the risk of PPD. Exercise during the early postpartum period, especially moderate to vigorous intensity, has been shown to reduce perceived stress and manage depressive symptoms. A multi-component approach, including social, educational, and coaching elements, is recommended for those implementing PA or exercise strategies. Face-to-face, group-based programs, and parent-baby bonding activities have proven effective in reducing PPD risk and enhancing maternal well-being.

The relationship between sedentary behavior and PPD remains under-researched, but greater leisure-time sedentary behavior during late pregnancy appears to be a risk factor for PPD.

The impact of diet on PPD is inconclusive – with conflicting findings. Some studies suggest that a healthy diet during pregnancy may protect against PPD, while others identify unfavorable dietary patterns, such as high fast-food consumption, as risk factors. High BMI has also been associated with PPD. Vitamin D has been extensively studied, with observational studies suggesting its protective role against PPD. However, the role of vitamin D supplementation in treating PPD is contradictory, and evidence for other nutrients and vitamins is insufficient.

Moreover, lifestyle behaviors may be crucial for preventing and treating PPD. The strongest evidence supports the use of perinatal exercise and high-quality sleep to improve PPD risk and symptoms. Future research should focus on interventions to establish regular exercise routines during pregnancy and postpartum, improve perinatal sleep quality, and investigate the role of lifestyle behaviors as adjuncts to pharmacotherapy for reducing PPD severity.

Source: Brunson A, McLean MK, Parker-Brown J, et al. Physical education, sport and health culture in modern society. 2024 May 22(1 (65)):95-103.