Favorable Lifestyle Behaviors as Reverse Risk Factors and Treatment for Postpartum Depression

Abstract

Background. Lifestyle behaviors such as sleep, sedentary behavior, physical activity (PA) or exercise, and diet may influence risk for postpartum depression (PPD) or serve as treatment options for those diagnosed with PPD. The purpose of this review was to summarize existing research about four key lifestyle behaviors (sleep, sedentary behavior, PA and exercise, and diet) and their potential influence on PPD. Methods. Studies that were published in English after 2000 were drawn from the PubMed database. Observational studies, systematic reviews, meta-analyses, and randomized, controlled trials that enrolled >50 participants were considered for inclusion. Results. Quality sleep and PA or exercise during pregnancy and the postpartum period may reduce PPD risk or help improve PPD symptoms. Data regarding the utility of intervening on diet patterns or specific nutrients for lessening PPD risk or serving as PPD treatment are inconsistent. Evidence for vitamin D supplementation is extensive, while evidence supporting other vitamins, nutrients, and minerals remains inconclusive. Research linking sedentary behavior and PPD is extremely limited. Conclusion. Sleep quality and PA or exercise may reduce the risk of PPD or mitigate its symptoms. Further high- quality research studies examining the relationship between sedentary behavior and PPD risk are necessary. Healthy lifestyle behaviors, alone or in conjunction with other evidence-based strategies recommended by healthcare providers, may serve as effective preventive measures and treatments for PPD in the pregnancy and postpartum periods.