Although diet alone can’t cure depression, these foods can provide essential nutrients that can fight inflammation and the symptoms of depression.
These nutrient dense vegetables are some of the healthiest around – kale, swiss chard, spinach – packed with immune-boosting and anti-inflammation properties. Severe depression has been linked to brain inflammation, so including some of these in your diet is a good idea. They also provide vitamins A, C, E, K and minerals your body needs to stay healthy!
Salmon, among other types of fish such as tuna, are high in polyunsaturated fats. One type of these fats, called omega-3 fatty acids, may help brain cells use chemicals that can affect your mood. Studies have shown that people who aren’t depressed had higher levels of omega-3s than those that suffered from depression or other mood disorders.
Walnuts, like Salmon, are one of the richest plant-based sources of omega-3 fatty acids.
Avocados are super foods for fighting depression because again, they contain healthy fats that keep your brain running smoothly! 3/4 of the calories from an avocado are healthy fat. They also contain 4 grams of protein, vitamin K, B, C, and E-12, high in dietary fibre, and low in sugar! Avocados are delicious on a slice of toast for lunch, or added to a salad.
Berries such as blueberries, strawberries, blackberries, and raspberries are high in anti-oxidants which are proven to help lower depression.
Tomatoes contain lots of folic acid and alpha-lipoic acid, both of which are good for fighting depression. Many studies show an elevated incidence of folate deficiency in patients with depression. Alpha-lipoic acid helps the body convert glucose into energy, and therefore stabilizes mood.
