If you’re starting transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) therapy for depression, you might be wondering, “Will this affect my weight?” It’s a valid question, especially for anyone who has struggled with medication side effects like weight gain or loss. The good news? TMS is not linked to major weight changes in most people. But let’s take a closer look at how TMS and weight changes are connected, and what you can expect during treatment.
Can TMS Therapy Affect Your Weight? What the Research Says
TMS therapy is a non-medication treatment that uses magnetic pulses to stimulate parts of the brain involved in mood regulation. Unlike antidepressant medications, TMS does not directly alter your metabolism or appetite through chemical changes in your body. However, the effects of TMS on your mental health could still influence your weight indirectly.
“For many of our patients, weight changes during TMS are more related to improvements in depression symptoms than the treatment itself,” says Dr. Clayton L. Allison, psychiatrist at NorTex Psychiatry. “When people begin feeling better, they often eat and move differently—sometimes more, sometimes less.”
TMS and Weight Changes: Understanding the Metabolism Link
There’s no evidence that TMS causes major shifts in metabolism. Most people undergoing TMS therapy report stable weight, especially when compared to medications that are known to impact appetite or energy balance.
However, depression itself can lead to weight gain or weight loss, depending on the person. Here’s how TMS therapy can play a role:
- Improved appetite: As depression symptoms improve, some patients regain their appetite.
- Increased activity: Feeling more energized can encourage movement, helping balance weight.
- Better sleep: Restful sleep helps regulate hormones linked to hunger and metabolism.
- Stabilized mood: Fewer emotional eating episodes and reduced food cravings may follow.
“We’ve seen some patients naturally adopt healthier habits once their depression starts lifting,” says Brittany Huckaby, PHNP. “TMS isn’t a weight-loss or weight-gain treatment—it’s about getting your mind back on track, which can help your body follow.”
Mental Health, Depression, and Weight Changes During TMS
If you’ve struggled with emotional eating, low motivation, or inactivity due to depression, you’re not alone. These patterns often shift as your mood improves with TMS. Here’s what many patients notice:
- Less emotional eating: Mood stability can reduce cravings.
- Improved motivation: Easier to cook, plan meals, or exercise.
- Fewer sleep disruptions: Supports hormone balance tied to weight.
- Reduced medication reliance: Some patients lower or stop medications that caused weight gain, under their doctor’s guidance.
Will TMS Make You Gain Weight? Myths vs. Facts
Let’s clear up a few common questions:
- Does TMS cause weight gain?
➤ No. There’s no direct link between TMS therapy and weight gain. - Can TMS lead to weight loss?
➤ Not directly. But mood improvement can encourage healthier habits. - Does TMS affect appetite?
➤ It might, but only in relation to changes in your depression symptoms. - Is TMS a weight-neutral mental health treatment?
➤ Yes. TMS is considered weight-neutral, meaning it’s not known to cause weight gain or loss as a side effect.
What to Expect: A Patient’s Guide to TMS and Weight Fluctuations
Here are a few tips to keep in mind during your treatment journey:
- Track your habits: Keep a simple food and activity log to notice trends.
- Ask your provider: Share any concerns about appetite or energy levels.
- Stay active: Even light activity like walking supports mental and physical health.
- Focus on mental progress: The main goal of TMS is mood improvement.
- Be patient: Everyone responds differently. Give your body time to adjust.
Ready to Learn More About TMS Therapy and Weight Concerns?
If you’re looking for a non-medication depression therapy that won’t affect your weight, TMS may be a good fit. At NorTex Psychiatry, we offer TMS therapy consultations for patients in Allen, McKinney, Frisco, and Dallas. Whether you’re concerned about TMS side effects and weight changes or want to explore weight-neutral mental health treatments, our team is here to help.
📅 Schedule your TMS therapy session today
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