Depression is experienced by up to 20 million people in America, notes the U.S. National Library of Medicine. Depression often impacts function at daily activities at work or in your personal life, and is most common in women. Some foods are helpful in brightening moods. They contain chemicals that incite the brain to lessen the negativity of depression. Talk to your doctor if you feel depressed and inquire about foods that help fight the condition.
Whole-Grain Foods
Whole-grain foods including bread and pasta are complex carbohydrates that boost the level of serotonin in your brain, notes MayoClinic.com. This chemical helps relieve depression as serotonin is a mood enhancer. Eating whole-grain foods regularly helps regulate mood and keep your spirit cheerful.
Foods With Tryptophan
Bananas, milk, peanut butter, sesame seeds, oats, chicken, turkey and nuts are foods that contain the amino acid tryptophan, notes MayoClinic.com. As tryptophan levels increase in your brain your body and mind feel less bleak and a calm, sleepy feeling often arises. Eating these foods on a regular basis will contribute to keeping depression at bay and also help you to relax.
Omega-3 Foods
Some foods contain omega-3 fatty acids that can be helpful in combating depression, notes the University of Maryland Medical Center. This fatty acid cannot be created in the body; it must come from what you eat. Foods with omega-3 fatty acids include salmon, halibut, tuna, sardines, whole grains and walnuts. Eating foods with omega-3 is not a cure for depression but it does improve overall health and offers a chance at fighting depression too.
Foods With Folic Acid
Foods that contain folic acid help regulate and keep strong the levels of serotonin in your brain, notes CBS News. Among foods that include folic acid are spinach, lentils and whole-grain cereals. Eating foods with folic acid every day will help keep your mood perky and bright. Additional foods that help the brain use serotonin include avocado and chocolate. Eating foods that help the brain utilize serotonin will help limit the bleak moods of depression.
