15 Foods That Help Fight Depression Naturally
“Almonds have magnesium which helps in the making of serotonin, which is a feel-good brain chemical that helps one stay happy”
It is estimated that 350 million people suffer from depression worldwide. In India, especially in urban areas, nearly one, in every five persons is a victim of depression, due to which there has been a rise in suicidal tendencies. Unfortunately, there is no specific diet that can act as medicine and cure like magic but there are still certain eating plans or foods that can help as part of one’s overall treatment.
These foods are good for mental health and can keep depression at bay. They can also help you feel better if you are already suffering from depression. Here’s a list of some of the foods that can help alleviate depression.
Beat Depression With These Foods
Green Tea
Green Tea contains antioxidants and amino acids. Thus, it has the property to fight depression In a very natural way. It is good to drink three-four cups a day to maintain good health and to keep depression far away.
Salmon fish
Salmon fish is a good source of omega 3 fatty acids and omega 3 fatty acids are a great help in fighting depression. It also helps combat inflammation in the body.
Almonds
Almonds have as an anti depressant fighting element along with a good amount energy. It has magnesium which helps in making of serotonin, which is a feel good brain chemical that helps one stay happy.
Dark Chocolate
Dark Chocolate helps in the making of serotonin (an antidepressant) and helps in raising the level of serotonin in the body. It slows the making of stress hormones and hence reduces anxiety. Dark chocolate further reduces the effects of chronic fatigue syndrome through its flavonoid content.
Eggs
Eggs are full of proteins and other nutrients like zinc which is a micronutrient that helps in the making of neurotransmitters. It also aids their proper functioning. Zinc is one of the best antidepressants. Additionally, by eating eggs, you can fulfill the requirements of vitamin D which is an important element in fighting depression.
Banana
Banana is a nutritive fruit and has a lot of tryptophan which raises the level of serotonin in the body. It also helps in making tyrosine, which supports the making of two important neurotransmitters which are norepinephrine and dopamine, that help in keeping one in a good mood.
Avocados
Avocados have a great amount of omega 3 fatty acids. It is also full of tryptophan, an amino acid that helps to lessen stress and relax a person.
Berries
Berries like blueberries, strawberries, raspberries and blackberries are loaded with antioxidants. They are also filled with mood boosting nutrients such as B complex, zinc, selenium and potassium. All these nutrients help in the proper functioning of the brain.
Asparagus
Asparagus helps in raising low folic acid levels that are linked to depression. It also has vitamin B which boosts the mood. Furthermore, asparagus also contains tryptophan, which helps in creating serotonin in the brain and blocks depression and anxiety.
Walnuts
Walnuts are full of omega 3 fatty acids that promote a good healthy brain, supports brain function and also reduces depression symptoms.
Tomatoes
Tomatoes contain some depression fighting elements like folic acid and alpha-lipoic acid. Folic acid prevents the formation of an excess of homocysteine that hampers the production of some important neurotransmitters like dopamine, serotonin and norepinephrine. Alpha-lipoic acid helps the body to convert glucose into energy and therefore stabilizes the mood.
Onions
Onions and all allium vegetables (garlic, chives, leeks, and spring onions) contain a high concentration of anti -inflammatory flavonoid antioxidants which helps the digestive tract and the brain as well. It can prevent cancer of the gut and is also beneficial for one’s mood.
Mushrooms
Mushrooms have two good effects. Firstly, it has chemical properties like insulin that lowers blood sugar levels and secondly, it also acts like a probiotic that promotes healthy gut bacteria. These produce 80 to 90 per cent of your body’s serotonin, which is an important neurotransmitter that keeps one sane.
Apples
Apples contain high levels of antioxidants which control inflammation on a cellular level and repair oxidation damage. It is also loaded with soluble fibre that balances blood sugar levels and helps in maintaining good mental health.
Turmeric
Turmeric is one of the most common spices used in India and Asian kitchens. It boosts the mind and also has antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties. In addition, it also contains turmerones and curcuminoids which provide nutrition and help the body fight illness.
Did You Know?
Banana peels are the easiest solution to attain white teeth. Just rub your teeth with a banana peel for two minutes whenever you brush and get a perfect smile in no time.