5 Food To Help You Fight Depression

One of the most overlooked aspects of mental health is nutrition. Food plays a significant role in our physical health, as well as our mental and emotional health. When you are struggling with depression, it can feel a bit overwhelming to think about eating the right foods. However, some of these small changes in your diet may help to decrease your symptoms and have a positive effect on your daily life.

* Fish

Wild-caught fish, especially the more oily types such as salmon, mackerel, trout, sardines, and tuna (not canned), are great choices to help fight depression. Why? Because they are rich sources of omega-3 fats.

What's more, researchers analyzed 26 previously published studies (involving more than 150,000 participants) that examined the link between fish consumption and the risk of depression. The study, which was published in the Journal of Epidemiology and Community Health, found that people who consumed the most fish were less likely to experience symptoms of depression. The findings proved that even more clinical trials are needed to explore the role of omega-3 fatty acids in depression and mental health.

* Nuts

Although other nuts such as cashews, brazil nuts, and hazelnuts are helpful in supplementing omega-3 fats, walnuts seem to be the winner in this category. Walnuts are known to support overall brain health, being one of the highest plant-based sources of omega-3 and a great source of protein to help keep blood sugar levels at a healthy balance.

One study found that depression scores were 26% lower among those who consumed about one-quarter cup of walnuts per day. Researchers examined data from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey, which draws from a large sampling of more than 26,000 American adults. They found that adults who ate nuts, and specifically walnuts, were more likely to have higher levels of optimism, energy, hope, concentration, and a greater interest in activities.

* Beans

Beans are a great source of protein and fiber, both of which help to maintain stable and consistent blood sugar levels. In addition to helping minimize the blood sugar spikes and dips that can affect our mood, beans are also great sources of folate. Folate is a B vitamin that helps the body produce blood cells, DNA and RNA, and metabolize proteins. Garbanzo beans (also known as chickpeas) are very high in folate, offering over 100% of the daily recommended value in just a half-cup. Pinto beans are another great choice, with a half-cup serving offering 37% of the daily recommended value of folate.

* Seeds

Flaxseed and chia seeds are wonderful additions to your diet if you struggle with depression. As with some of the other foods mentioned, these two types of seeds are particularly great sources of omega-3 fats. Just one tablespoon of chia seeds provides approximately 61% of your daily recommended amount of omega-3 and one tablespoon of flaxseed provides roughly 39% of the daily recommendation.3 As you can see, these two seeds pack a powerful punch if you are looking for small ways to improve your diet and your mood.

* Poultry

Chicken and turkey are both great sources of lean protein that can help to stabilize blood sugar levels, keeping your mood well-balanced during the day. In addition to being trusted sources of lean protein, turkey and chicken breasts are known to provide high amounts of tryptophan.

Again, this is beneficial because it helps create serotonin, which assists us in maintaining healthy sleep and a balanced mood. Just 3 ounces of roasted chicken breast offers 123% of the recommended daily intake of tryptophan. Many of us already eat chicken breast regularly but incorporating more lean protein such as turkey and chicken during your week can help you increase your intake of tryptophan.