Foods That Help Cope With Anxiety And Depression

It is normal for a person to go through low points on and off as this is part of the body’s normal bio-rhythm. However, if you are an emotional yo-yo, it’s time for you to take a look at your lifestyle and diet. There are many triggers that could be behind depression and anxiety attacks. While extreme mood swings and depression could call for medical attention and therapy, there are often times that the food we eat has a bearing on our behavior and what we feel. The good news is that there are ways to stabilize moods by choosing foods that fight anxiety and depression. The brain produces a chemical called serotonin, which has a calming effect on your nervous system and body. Therefore, it is important to have good nutrition in order to fight anxiety and depression. 

 

Carbohydrates are linked very strongly to production of serotonin. Therefore, increase your intake of foods rich in carbohydrates. Foods rich in carbohydrates are yam, potatoes, wheat, rice and other cereals and starchy roots. However, keep in mind that there are some people who get more depressed after consuming white rice. So monitor your food consumption and your moods. 

 

Vitamin B6 is a good source of selenium (an antioxidant mineral), which helps soothe the body. Some foods that are rich in Vitamin B6 are poultry food, groundnuts, beans, peas, fish, eggs, and dark green vegetables. 

 

Folate plays a huge role in the production of serotonin and Vitamin C is a good source of this. Foods rich in vitamin C include spinach, peas, legumes, oranges and other citrus fruits, However, be careful not to overdo on the Vitamin C, since excess consumption has an adverse effect on the body. 

 

Vitamin E is an antioxidant, a low level of which can lead to heightened anxiety and depression. Foods rich in Vitamin E include oils such as canola oil (use with moderation since it is high in fat), chickpeas, wheat germ, oats, green leafy vegetables, sprouted beans, egg yolks, seeds and nuts. 

 

Foods that are rich in omega-3 fatty acids help prevent heart diseases, stroke and cancers, apart from stabilizing mood swings. Salmon and mackerel are rich in omega-3 fatty acids and contain selenium. Other sources of omega-3 fatty acids are seeds, nuts and flax oils. 

 

Fluid Intake 

Water is the most important thing that you can take in that will help alleviate depression and anxiety. When your body is dehydrated, your body is affected in many ways, ranging from problems with liver functionality as well as brain impairment. Do not try to substitute your water intake with coffee, tea or soft drinks since they themselves need to be flushed out of your system by water. Also, they have side effects that are not very pleasant.