How to Fight Depression Naturally : : Natural Cures for Common Illnesses

How to Fight Depression Naturally

In the last few years, the rates of depression in both men and women are on the increase and many sufferers use anti-depressants to fight this condition. What you may not know is that by following a few simple dietary recommendations you can reduce the chances of depression. Diet plays an important role in the prevention and treatment of depression and stress. According to scientists there are certain foods that improve our mental health, due to the fact that they promote the synthesis of serotonin, the hormone associated with good mood. It is no coincidence that the effect of several antidepressants is actually based on the production of serotonin.

To fight depression you should consume the following foods:

  • Foods rich in folic acid (spinach), selenium-rich foods (seafood) and zinc-rich foods (such as shellfish, pumpkin seeds, mushrooms, soy and organic meats).
  • Plenty of fresh fruits and vegetables and soybeans.
  • Complex carbohydrates, like brown rice. The absence of complex carbohydrates from your daily meals can cause serotonin depletion of the body’s reserves and lead to depression.
  • Protein and essential fatty acids contained in salmon and white fish. Salmon and turkey are also high in tryptophan, which is a substance that can help you improve your mood. Other foods high in tryptophan include low-fat milk, beef, lamb, pork, cheese, pumpkin seeds, poultry, peanuts, cashew nuts, beans, and eggs.
  • Omega-3 fatty acids that are found in mackerel, salmon, tuna, anchovies and herring. These fatty acids are particularly important.

Recently, a group of scientists led by Andrew Stoll, from the McLean Hospital, showed that the consumption of omega-3 fatty acids by patients that suffer from this condition, significantly reduced the frequency and intensity of their attacks. However, other studies suggest that the most important factor in the treatment of depression may not be only the consumption of omega-3 fatty acids, but the proper ratio of omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids. The modern way of eating, contributes to the high intake of omega-6 acids, which disrupts the proper ratio.

What to avoid

  1. Supplements that contain the amino acid phenylalanine, which is a highly allergenic factor. This means that you should avoid artificial sweeteners like aspartame.
  2. Foods high in saturated fats. It seems that the consumption of meat or fried foods such as hamburgers and fries, leads to sluggishness and fatigue.
  3. Concentrated sugars. The body reacts more quickly to the presence of simple sugars than to complex carbohydrates. The energy derived from the consumption of sweets does not last and the ups and downs of blood sugar affect the brain in the long run, causing you fatigue and depression.
  4. Alcohol: it should be consumed with caution, because it can cause depression and exacerbate mental health problems.

Responses are currently closed, but you can trackback from your own site.

Comments are closed.