Diet and Depression

It is normal for a person to feel low sometimes, but if this low mood hangs on for days altogether, it can be a sign of depression. Studies have shown that most of us feel depressed at one time or another for short or sometimes longer durations. Major depressions are critical enough to disrupt normal activities. Low energy, fatigue, irritability, agitation, difficulty in concentration, self-hatred, thoughts of suicide, low or increased appetite, are some of the symptoms of depression.

We often hear that what you eat has a huge impact on how you feel, physically as well as mentally. Some foodstuffs are actually good for your mental health and a complete healthy and balanced diet can work wonders for your overall depression treatment. So if you want to beat the blues go ahead and munch on these depression diets.

Food for Depression

Eat smart carbs - Serotonin, a mood-lifting brain chemical, links the connection between your mood and carbohydrates. So go on and choose smart & healthy carbs like vegetables, fruits, legumes and whole grains.

Rich proteins – Protein rich foods like chicken, turkey or tuna have a high content of an amino acid known as tyrosine. This tyrosine is supposed to help boost the chemicals on brain namely norepinephrine and dopamine, which in turn aids in improved concentration and vigilance. Fish, lean meat, milk, yogurt, soy products, low-fat cheese are all good source of rich proteins.

Omega 3 fatty acids – Studies have found that a deficiency of omega 3 fatty acids can lead to depression. Fishes are the richest source of omega 3 fatty acids. These include mackerel, sardines, tuna, salmon, anchovy and shad. Flaxseeds, walnuts, soybean oil, canola oil and green vegetables are also good source of omega 3 fatty acids.

Selenium rich foods – Selenium, a mineral, found in certain foods is said to be associated with moods of a person; lower the intake, poorer the mood. Selenium rich food includes whole grains; sea food like clams, crab, oysters, sardines and freshwater and saltwater fish; seeds and nuts especially Brazil nuts; legumes and beans, low fat dairy products and lean meat.

Vital antioxidants – Antioxidants combat with the free radicals of the body which are a major cause of dysfunction often leading to depression. Apricots, broccoli, blueberries, carrots, oranges, potatoes, peaches, spinach, pumpkin, strawberries, grapefruit, etc are excellent sources of antioxidants.

Feeling blue, sad, lonely or plain depressed? Don’t just grab a chocolate; instead opt for one of these healthy diets for depression.