There is a reason that we so often hear the old phrase “you are what you eat.” Diet can impact several different areas of our lives. Our physical health, our outward appearance, and even our mental health can change due to what we eat. Junk food can cause us to feel sluggish, bloated, and experience other adverse and harmful health effects. However, the right foods can help us feel energized and healthy. There are even some foods to fight depression.
Information about Depression
According to the National Institute of Mental Health, depression is a common but serious mood disorder. Sufferers of depression can experience persistent sadness, loss of interest in activities once enjoyed, feelings of hopelessness and difficulty living day-to-day life. Approximately 16.2 million adults in The United States suffer from depression while 350 million people suffer worldwide. While there are many treatment options for depression, changing your diet — in some cases — can have a positive change in those suffering.
Foods to Fight Depression
If you or someone you know is suffering from depression, try eating some of these tasty foods:
Walnuts
Walnuts contain many neuroprotective compounds, including vitamin E, folate, melatonin, omega-3 fats, and antioxidants. Omega-3 fats have been shown to support brain function and reduce depression symptoms.
Leafy Greens
Think kale, spinach, collard greens, arugula, mustard greens and romaine. These greens contain plenty of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. They’re also known to reduce inflammation. Since depression can link to brain inflammation, leafy greens could positively impact those suffering. Leafy greens also contain vitamins A, C, E, and K, minerals, and phytochemicals.
Tomatoes
These red, juicy beauties contain tons of folic acid and alpha-lipoic acid. Both are known to help fend off depression. In several studies, people with depression tend to have a folate deficiency. Folic acid prevents an excess of homocysteine, a chemical that restricts the production of neurotransmitters such as dopamine, serotonin, and norepinephrine, from forming. Alpha-lipoic acid can help stabilize mood by converting glucose into energy.
Berries
Raspberries, strawberries, blueberries, and blackberries contain antioxidants. Antioxidants prohibit, and sometimes even prevent, the oxidation of molecules in the body. They have the power to help rid your body of possibly getting various illnesses and chronic diseases. In one study, two groups of people suffering from depression were treated for two years, with antioxidants and placebos. Of the two groups, the group treated with antioxidants had a significantly lower depression score.
Mushrooms
While some people like them, and some people don’t, mushrooms are great for your mental health. Mushrooms contain chemical properties that oppose insulin, helping to lower blood sugar levels, which can balance a person’s mood. Along with this, mushrooms act as a probiotic, promoting healthy gut bacteria. The nerve cells in a human being’s gut manufacture 80 to 90 percent of the body’s serotonin, the neurotransmitter that regulates mood and social behavior, appetite, and digestion, sleep, memory, etc.
Fighting Depression with Morningside Recovery
For those fighting off depression, many treatment options are available. However, by including foods to fight depression into your diet, it can be possible for some people to experience positive effects. But, diet alone can’t fend off every symptom of depression. If you require depression treatment, reach out to Morningside Recovery today. We offer numerous mental health treatment options along with dual diagnosis treatment. Learn how to regain control of your life and call today at 855-631-2135.