Diet for Depression

There are many sources and seemingly explainable causes and reasonings for depression. Symptoms include fatigue, sadness in mood, lack of appetite, feelings of helplessness, and a dislike or distrust in common activities. Stress, emotional issues, hormonal imbalances, alcohol, and lack of sunlight are several simple explanatory reasons for depression. However, is depression also linked to food?

Several recent studies have shown that a lack of nutritional deficiency and toxicity from certain food allergies and metals, have revealed themselves as common links to depression. Yet, antidepressants are among the most commonly distributed pharmaceuticals among physician’s offices nationwide. Not only are these antidepressants overly prescribed, but they are dangerous to the health of the individual and most contain serious side effects. These side effects may include suicidal thoughts, weight gain, and personality changes.1 Fortunately, effective natural remedies do exist and they are gaining in popularity as they treat the root issue rather than only mask the outward symptoms.

Foods which are proven to cause depression:

1. Wheat: Wheat is a common food allergy and it is linked to the worsening of depression.
2. Hydrogenated Fats: These fats not only cause inflammation, but they are attributed to hormonal imbalances.
3. Caffeine: While caffeine is a sure stimulant, it is not recommended for those with depression, due to the fact that it will leave the individual irritable and exhausted hours after consuming.
4. Alcohol: Alcohol should not be utilized as a solution for emotional issues and those with depression should avoid alcohol.
5. Sugar: Sugar causes energy crashes and spikes, so those with depression should aim to avoid it completely. 2

Foods which are proven to help those with depression:

1. 
   Saturated Fats: These fats are found in grass-fed meats and raw dairy and promote cellular function and neurological health.
2. Clean Lean Protein: 4-5 oz of clean, lean protein is recommended for these individuals at every meal. 3
3. Vegetables: A diet high in vegetables proves an intake of vital nutrients which helps support mood.
4. Seeds and Omega 3’s: Seeds and Omega 3’s are vital for healthy neurological function.

Natural Remedies for those with depression:

• Vitamin D3 (1000 mg daily)
• Adaptogen Herbs (5,000 IU daily)
• B-Complex (50 mg 2X daily)
• St. John’s Wort (300-500 mg daily)

Bonus Remedies:

Depression is a common issue which must be dealt on a number of levels. One with depression must address this issue from a psychological perspective, physical perspective, and mental perspective. In addition to eating correct foods and eliminating harmful foods, there are several others things a person with depression could do. First of all, he or she could exercise. Exercising 3-5X per week will release endorphins which improve mental mood.4 Also, he or she should find a loving support system. One with depression should find a strong group of friends in addition to seeking a relationship with God. Finally, a person with depression could test out essential oils. Several essential oils such as bergamot, lavender, and roman chamomile have proven to aid in the minimizing of depression.5

References:

Diet for Depression | Foods that Help Depression. (n.d.). Retrieved February 14, 2016, from http://www.webmd.com/depression/guide/diet-recovery

5 Natural Remedies For Depression - DrAxe.com. (n.d.). Retrieved February 14, 2016, from http://draxe.com/natural-remedies-depression/

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