Depression is a disorder which involves a chronic feeling of sadness, a loss of hope and a disinterest in doing activities that used to be enjoyable. It is a complicated disorder with links to genetic history, obesity and even diet. While some foods have a protective effect against depression, others have been found to increase a person's risk of becoming depressed. Eating particular foods may be able to help a mentally depressed person feel better overall.
Salmon
Salmon is one of the best choices for those who suffer from depression or those who are at risk. The World's Healthiest Foods website states that eating salmon can help to prevent and reduce depression in two ways. First, the high protein content of salmon helps to send correct messages from the brain to the nervous system, reducing depression. Additionally, the World's Healthiest Foods website states that the omega 3 fatty acids found in salmon promote a positive mood and help to reduce symptoms associated with depression.
Spinach
According to Dr. Susan Biali of Psychology Today, leafy green vegetables like spinach can also help to ameliorate depression when consumed regularly. They explain that folic acid, a B vitamin which is added to prenatal vitamins has been found to be present in low levels in many people who are depressed. Yet getting folate from spinach can reduce the symptoms of depression and help regulate mood. People who suffer from depression can try eating a spinach salad a few days a week for lunch, and using sautéed spinach in their omelets for breakfast a few times a week as well.
Eggs
People who are depressed experience a reducing in symptoms if they eat breakfast often, according to Psychology Today. Eggs make an easy, high-protein breakfast. The protein in eggs helps to prevent drops in blood sugar levels, which are associated with mental depression and moodiness. Psychology Today recommends eating high protein foods like eggs, meat, cheese, beans or nuts at every meal.
Fruits
The Center for Women's Health at Massachusetts General Hospital reports that people who eat more fruit in their diet are less likely to be depressed than those who rarely eat fruit and eat a diet high in processed foods. Though the reason for this is unknown, it may be related to the healthy type of carbohydrates that fruits provide. People with depression may want to try eating a fruit like an apple or banana for a snack every day.
