Upon discontinuing a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI) medication like Prozac, you may experience a condition called SSRI discontinuation or withdrawal syndrome. SSRI withdrawal syndrome is usually characterized by a temporary return of psychological symptoms, including anxiety and depression, that SSRIs like Prozac are commonly prescribed to treat. Tapering off antidepressants slowly under the supervision of your physician is the best way to avoid Prozac withdrawal, although consuming certain mood-boosting nutrients may also help reduce symptoms.
Serotonin-Boosting Foods
Prozac helps treat anxiety disorders and depression by increasing amounts of serotonin -- a calming, mood-regulating neurotransmitter -- in the brain. Certain foods also increase serotonin and may help relieve the anxiety and depression that are symptomatic of SSRI withdrawal syndrome. Foods that provide the B vitamin folate, such as spinach, whole grains, lentils and beets, are essential for maintaining healthy serotonin levels. Complex carbohydrates like oatmeal and sweet potatoes and foods like turkey that provide the amino acid L-tryptophan also trigger the release of serotonin. Lastly, foods rich in monounsaturated fat, such as avocados, increase the effects of serotonin by improving your brain's sensitivity to this neurotransmitter.
Other Mood Nutrients
The essential mineral magnesium, which is plentiful in dried apricots, almonds and spinach, is a critical nutrient when it comes to fighting stress and anxiety. Additionally, foods that provide omega-3 fatty acids, such as salmon and walnuts, produce calming effects by keeping the stress hormones cortisol and adrenaline in check. Potassium-rich foods like bananas help you resist stress by lowering blood pressure. Whey protein, offered by milk and other dairy products, has also been shown to reduce SSRI withdrawal symptoms like anxiety and frustration, according to CBSNews.com. Other important nutrients for resisting depression include vitamin D and selenium, both of which are found in mushrooms.
Foods and Habits to Avoid
A diet for Prozac withdrawal should limit foods and eating habits that can destabilize mood. For example, although caffeine and alcohol may provide a temporary mood lift, they may ultimately worsen anxiety and depression symptoms and interfere with sleep. Simple carbohydrates such as sugary foods and drinks should also be avoided with SSRI withdrawal, as they provide an initial rush of energy followed by a crash that can cause an anxious or depressed mood. Finally, eating large meals may increase depression symptoms like lethargy and fatigue; eating several small meals throughout the day is a more mood-friendly dietary habit as it helps keep your energy levels steady throughout the day.
Other Considerations
In addition to your diet, other lifestyle factors such as getting regular exercise and having a strong support network can help you fight depression and anxiety to better cope with the psychological symptoms of SSRI discontinuation syndrome. Most importantly, you shouldn't abruptly discontinue antidepressant therapy, especially without your doctor's approval. Keep in mind that short-acting antidepressants like paroxetine and venlafaxine are more likely to cause discontinuation symptoms than longer-acting SSRIs like Prozac. Talk to your doctor about any psychological symptoms you experience after stopping Prozac, as they may indicate a relapse of depression or anxiety that requires medication, counseling or another treatment.
References
- PubMed Health: Fluoxetine
- CBSNews.com; Mood Foods Can Help Lift Your Spirits; February 2009
- MarieClaire.com; 9 Foods That Reduce Stress Levels; March 2010
- Shape.com; Foods That Fight Depression; Cynthia Sass, MPH, RD; March 2011
- MayoClinic.com; Coping with Anxiety: Can Diet Make a Difference?; Daniel K. Hall-Flavin, M.D.; May 2011
