Body Composition, Fitness, and Mental Health in Preadolescent Children

In this cross-sectional study of preadolescent children, greater lean mass and higher fitness were associated with fewer anxiety and depression symptoms, while higher VAT was associated with increased symptoms of both. BF% was only associated with greater anxiety. These findings highlight the roles of body composition in mental health and underscore the value of early identification of physical health markers to support children's well-being and development.