Sadness is normally a part of life. Ups and downs are inevitable and some people do have it worse. Be it a failing grade at school, a fight with your best-friend, a misunderstanding between your sibling or parents or breaking up with your significant other, these will definitely lead to sadness.
Depression is always confused by some as nothing but sadness. Some people claim they are depressed although they are not. People with depression are experiencing sadness in a different way. The sadness stay for far too long and is affecting their daily lives. They lose their will to eat, go out, socialize, work and many more. Depression, sadly, is highly associated with suicide.
But for those who experience it, it doesn’t mean that all hope is lost. Some are still fighting and is ready to take a step against depression. And here are 10 of the few that you can consume while going into battle.
#1: Green Tea
Consumption of tea, specifically green tea, has long been proven to help fight against depression. Studies that have started as far as 7 years ago, claimed that green tea, and its component Theanine, is great in helping improvement towards psychiatric conditions.
#2: Almonds
Almonds are significantly a great helper against depression because of its component Magnesium. Magnesium influences the production of Serotonin, the feel-good hormone or the hormone responsible for our happiness. People with depression have significant low levels of serotonin in their brains that causes them to be highly inactive and not engage in any activities.
#3: Salmon
A cold water fish such as salmon is high in omega-3 fatty acids. This is associated with keeping the brain at peak condition by reducing inflammation. In recent studies, people with depression have very low intake of omega-3 fatty acids which causes them to be more prone with some illnesses.
#4: Dark Chocolate
Dark chocolate is rich in flavonoids. Flavonoids help reduce the symptoms of chronic fatigue and anxiety which are also associated with depression. Consumption of dark chocolate is related to serotonin levels.
#5: Eggs
The staple breakfast food is lesser known for its effects in the brain. Eggs are rich in zinc, vitamin D and vitamin B12. Zinc is important in maintining a good mental health by boosting neurotransmitter production and function. Vitamin D in the other hand is related in mental illnesses when consumed in low levels. Vitamin B12 helps the nervous system in performing its function.
#6: Bananas
Bananas are rich in tryptophan. Tryptophan is a substance that influences the production of hormones that can affect the mood. Aside from that, bananas are also rich in Tyrosine. Tyrosine helps in the production of norepinephrine and serotonin. These two help in the treatment of depression by reducing the symptoms.
#7: Avocados
Avocados are incredibly rich in Omega-3 fatty acids and potassium. Because of this, it one of the most excellent food to help overcome depression. A diet low in potassium can contribute to mood swings and confusion.
#8: Blueberries
In a recent study, blueberries fed to rats shown a great result that it can be very helpful against depression. It is naturally rich in antioxidants and other minerals such as selenium.
#9: Spinach
The use of dark, leafy green vegetables to fight depression is a must. Eating spinach during your meals can help improve your brain function and cognitive health. It is rich in folic acid, magnesium and zinc which together help stabilize and build a stronger mental health by fighting against moodswings and facilitating brain activities.
#10: Asparagus
Asparagus, besides from being your childhood veggie, is high in folic acid, B vitamins and tryptophan. The three substances found in asparagus help in overall mental health. Improving cognitive function, stimulating neurons and increasing the production of dopamine (a hormone in an incredibly low level for those who suffer depression).
Depression, like any other illness, can be treated. It is a false knowledge that depression is the end of everything. We must always be ready and be willing to fight even if we only have ourselves to fight for. Everything is still worth living for. Keep fighting until you win!
Source: Everyday Health
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