Depressing Diets

With our very busy schedules, comfort food can be the easiest and most satisfying to us. The problem is that most comfort food can be doing the exact opposite to our bodies and moods.  Research has suggested certain eating patterns may be associated with sadness and anxiety. This is certainly that case with diets low in B vitamins and omega-3 fatty acids. So instead of reaching for the tub of ice cream, you may want to grab some fruit!

 

Diets

Need to Know

Running to your fast food restaurant to get a cheeseburger and fries may sound like a good idea but it could be harmful to your body besides high cholesterol and heart disease. Research has suggested that depression can be linked to a diet high in saturated fats and trans fats.  These fats can be found in large amounts in foods such as fast food, potato chips, many dips, and deserts. 

In a study, researchers found people who ate more trans fats were at a greater risk of depression than those who had a clean to average diet. This is believed to be the case because high trans fat in your diet can create inflammation in the brain and heart. 

Many experts believe that the general public consumes sweet treats, candy, and soft drinks over fruits and vegetables which supply the body with powerful antioxidants. Antioxidants may help prevent depression along with other illnesses.

It is also possible that depression can be caused from diets lacking in protein and fatty acids which can cause nervous system dysfunctions.

Plan for Action

The following foods could help prevent depression:

B Vitamins

These nutrients are essential to a happy mood and healthy life.  Foods rich in vitamin B12 can help and correct the balance of chemicals in the brain. To get a healthy amount of vitamin B12, you can eat any organ meat or fortified cereals. Another B vitamin needed for a healthy mood is folate. Folate helps produce and maintain new brain cells.  You can find folate in dark green vegetables, dried beans, and citrus juices.

Omega-3s

Incorporate omega-3 fatty acids into your diet. Research has suggested that omega-3s can help support overall mental well-being. It also can help reduce symptoms of depression and anxiety. The main source you find omega-3 in is fish such has herring, trout, salmon and tuna. 

Not a fan of seafood?  Don’t worry you can always receive your daily omega-3s with flaxseed, soybean, walnuts and canola oil.

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