Many people believe that nature supplies us with everything that the human body and mind needs to maintain health. Modern day studies seem to prove that this is true more often that not. In many cases choosing to eat those foods that nature supplies us rather than processed food is proving to be an important key to good health. This is certainly true when it comes to fighting bouts of depression as scientists have discovered that there are several foods that are now being used to as part of the treatment for clinical depression and is now believed can actually prevent depression. Here are some of the top depression fighting foods.
Fatty Fish
The omega 3 fatty acids contained in cold water fatty fish has been proven to provide a large number of health benefits over the years so it shouldn’t be surprising that eating 2 or 3 helpings of fatty fish or taking a fish oil supplement can help prevent depression. Fish such as Salmon, Tuna, anchovies and Mackerel all contains high levels of omega 3 fatty acids. So do other seafood such as scallops, shrimp and crab.
Fowls
Many fowls can also help to fight depression due to the amino acids they contain. The best of the depression fighting birds are chicken, turkey, and duck. Since saturated fats can actually make you feel more depressed make sure that you remove the skin of these birds before cooking to limit the amount of saturated fats in your diet.
Nuts such as walnuts and almonds also contain healthy omega 3 fatty acids that may help in fighting depression.
Foods High In Vitamin B and C
Foods that are high in B complex vitamins are also believed to help prevent depression. These foods include fruits especially bananas and citrus fruits, but all fruits that are high in antioxidants should be enjoyed on a depression fighting diet. You also should include root and green leafy vegetables. Sugar beets and cabbage are especially good foods for fighting depression. Your diet should also include whole grains such brown rice and oatmeal. Adding fermented foods also helps as they manufacture those essential B vitamins that help with boosting your mood.
Starting A Depression Fighting Diet
If you are suffering from mood swings, SAD, or minor bouts of depression starting an depression fighting diet can give you a brighter outlook on life and help you live a more positive life. When starting a depression fighting diet the first thing you should do is make a list of those foods that can help prevent or reduce depression. From there make out a meal plan including snacks that include at least one or two of these depression fighting foods at each meal and for snacks. Then follow the meal plan.
Don’t expect miracles, give your new diet plan at least month before you should expect to see any results.
You also want to ensure that you cut out or limit those foods that can help cause depression. Limit caffeine and alcohol consumption, avoid simple sugars, saturated fats, and processed foods. By following a depression diet and eating the best foods to help fight and prevent depression you can keep both your body and your mind healthy.
