5 Food That Help You Fight Depression

Feeling depressed once in a while is normal when it is related to loss, life’s struggles or an injured self-esteem.

However, when intense sadness and feelings of being helpless, hopeless and worthless become a part of your life and prevent you from functioning normally, you may be suffering from clinical depression, a common but serious mood disorder.Depression can cause severe symptoms that affect how you feel, think and handle daily activities, such as sleeping, eating or working.

* Green Tea

Tea consumption, especially green tea, is associated with a significantly reduced risk for depression. Bursting with antioxidants and amino acids, green tea can help you overcome depression in a natural way.A 2009 study published in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition shows that more frequent consumption of green tea was associated with a lower prevalence of depressive symptoms in the older population living in the community.

* Almonds

Another good food for fighting depression is almonds, mainly due to their high magnesium content. Magnesium influences production of serotonin, a “feel-good” brain chemical. This mineral also affects overall energy production.In fact, a low magnesium level in the body is linked to depression and other mood disorders.

* Salmon

Cold-water fish like salmon are rich in omega-3 fatty acids, which help fight depression.People with depression usually have low intake of omega-3 fatty acids, which support normal brain functioning by reducing inflammation.The two main types of omega-3 fatty acids found in salmon are eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA). Both EPA and DHA are found in very high concentrations in brain tissue and play an important role in nerve function and mood regulation.

* Dark Chocolate

Dark chocolate may increase serotonin levels in the body, which has qualities nearly identical to antidepressants. Also, it contains carbohydrates in the form of sugar, which signals the body to produce more serotonin.In addition, dark chocolate slows down the production of stress hormones, which in turn reduces anxiety.

* Eggs

This popular breakfast food packed with protein and other nutrients is another effective food for fighting depression.Eggs are a good source of zinc, an essential micronutrient that is needed by the body to boost neurotransmitter production and functioning.By eating foods rich in zinc like eggs, you can fight zinc deficiency as well as depression and possibly other disorders.