Depression is an emotional disorder that involves prolonged episodes of negative feelings, such as sadness, despair or lack of purpose. Various types of depression exist, such as chronic depression that goes on for years and major depression, which lasts for two weeks or more. If depressive moods interfere with your ability to tend to usual daily activities and last for at least two weeks, a diagnosis of depression may be made. Treatment for depression may include psychological counseling, medication and/or complementary or alternatives therapies. According to the University of Maryland Medical Center (UMMC), a healthy dietary lifestyle that contains particular nutrients may help prevent or treat symptoms of depression.
Omega-3 Fatty Acids
Omega-3 fatty acids are essential fats the body can't produce on its own. The UMMC recommends intake of omega-3's, such as those found in fatty fish, on a regular basis as a means of reducing or preventing depressive symptoms. Omega-3's may also improve effectiveness of prescribed antidepressant medications. Incorporate fatty fish such as tuna, salmon, mackerel or sardines regularly for the best mood-enhancing results. Other sources of omega-3's include walnuts, walnut oil, canola oil, flax seeds and flax seed oil. Healthy fats also aid in nutrient absorption, so consume these fats as part of an overall nutritious, balanced diet for further enhanced benefits.
Foods With Vitamin E
Vitamin E is a fat soluble antioxidant that helps promote a healthy immune system. According to research reported in the June 2000 "Journal of Affective Disorders," individuals who experience depression have low vitamin E content. Wheat germ oil, almonds, sunflower seeds, sunflower oil, safflower oil, peanut butter, peanuts, spinach and broccoli all provide valuable amounts of vitamin E. Incorporate food sources of this nutrient into your diet regularly to reap most benefits.
Foods With Vitamin B6
Vitamin B6 is a water soluble vitamin needed for metabolism of protein. The UMMC suggests intake of vitamin B6 as a means of relieving symptoms of premenstrual dysphoric disorder, a form of depression that is stimulated by a woman's menstrual cycle. Vitamin B6 is found in most vitamin-fortified breakfast cereals, potatoes, bananas, garbanzo beans, chicken breast, pork loin, roast beef and oatmeal. Beans, peanut butter, walnuts, soybeans, tomato juice, lima beans, salmon and avocado provide modest amounts of B6. Incorporate a variety of food sources of vitamin B6 into your diet regularly to reap best results. If you are female and suffer from heightened depression prior to menstruation, pay particular attention to vitamin B6 intake during the week(s) prior to the onset of your premenstrual symptoms.
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