Depression is a disorder that has become disturbingly common in individuals. Doctors often prescribe various medicines to treat depression, however, very few people are aware of the fact that there is a more natural way to fight depression; indeed, the kind of food an individual eats can greatly alter the likelihood of developing depression. There are certain kinds of food present which actually helps reduce the feeling of depression; this is because the food that we consume affects the chemical flow in the brain. Excess consumption of sugar or caffeine can lead to increase in depression.

Food Containing Folate

One of the nutrients that our body requires is folate; the deficiency of this particular nutrient can cause insomnia, trigger depression and cause mental exhaustion. Different medicines like medication prescribed for cholesterol and diabetes can also lower the amount of folate present in our body.  The vegetable Beet is very rich in folate; the folate content in beets can be up to 40 percent when cooked. Other food items that have high folate content include Lentils, Broccoli, and Orange, Kidney beans, Spinach, Brewer’s yeast, Romaine lettuce and Pinto beans. It is important to make sure you consume food items with folate to fulfill the daily requirements!

Food Containing Protein

Protein is considered to be an essential requirement for the body, it has been proven that protein also aids in fighting depression. This is because Amino acids present in proteins affect the level of ‘Dopamine’, ‘Epinephrine’ and ‘Norepinphrine’ of the brain. This leads to an individual feeling more energetic and cheerful. There are many food items which are rich in protein; some example are Almond nuts, Asparagus, Bacon, Baked beans, Carrots, Cheese, Coconut, Cod fish, Lobster, Lamb and milk.

Food Containing Vitamin C

Two important roles that Vitamin C plays are the production of neurotransmitters in the brain and elimination of free radicals from our body; together these two help to fight depression. Hence when food items containing high amount of Vitamin C is consumed it leads to elevated mood.  Food items containing Vitamin C include Red and green hot chili peppers, Guava, Bell peppers, Mandarin oranges, Lime fruit etc. 

Food Containing Iron

Iron deficiency can lead to depression; if the daily requirement of iron is not met it can cause weakness and headaches. Iron is required for the smooth functioning of the neurological functions. Hence it is very important to eat food items that are rich in Iron to fight depression example brown rice, kidney beans, chickpeas, soy milk, broccoli, watermelon, dates, lamb and pork.

Food Containing Omega-3 Fatty Acids

EPA is a type of fatty acid that is not found in individuals suffering from depression. The lack of this type of acid causes increase in sadness, suicidal thoughts, sleeps disorders and increase anxiety. Hence there are some types of food that are rich in Omega-3 fatty acids these include walnuts, canola oil, soybean oil, spinach, fish, flaxseeds and squash

Conclusion

Hence, we now know that medicine is not the only cure, we do have a more natural and healthier way to fight depression. Following a proper diet plan and making sure that you intake the daily nutrient requirements is very necessary. The benefits of following a proper diet plan are not limited to physical benefits only. Eat healthy, feel healthy!