Stress and depression can affect your health and lifestyle in a major way and your eating habits are no exception. When some people are stressed or feeling a bit low or depressed, they may either lose their appetite or turn to their ‘comfort foods’. While many people don’t eat enough, others may indulge in stress eating and later fall prey to guilt and unbalanced eating habits. Either way, it is lose-lose situation in both the cases. A number of lifestyle choices can lead to depression and stress and getting out of the same is a long process and requires serious lifestyle changes. Your diet too plays a significant role and what you put into your mouth can help you come out of depression. So make a healthier choice today with these 8 foods that fight stress and depression.
Following Foods That Fight Stress And Depression:
1. Asparagus
Depression has found some connection with low levels of folic acid in the body and asparagus is one vegetable that has plenty of it. Asparagus are notorious for making your urine smell funny but don’t overlook the fact that they are rich in folate and it is necessary for keeping a level head. You can eat them the way you want, in salads, boiled, steamed or grilled or as a side vegetable with your regular meals.
2. Turkey
Turkey can easily be called as alternative treatment for depression. Firstly, it is a lean meat which makes it a good food to fight depression. Secondly, it is also high in tryptophan. This is a chemical substance that stimulates the production of serotonin, the chemical that makes you feel happy.
3. Avocados
If you are feeling anxious or depressed, blame it on deficiency of vitamin B. Healthy nerves and brain cells require their share of vitamin B. The good news is that the creamy avocados are full of vitamin B and help in relieving stress. They are also rich in folate, vitamin E, potassium and monosaturated fats which also help to regulate your blood pressure.
4. Walnuts
Most nuts are a good source of proteins and mono saturated fats that are good for your heart. But when it comes to fighting off depression and stress, there is no denying that walnuts should be your instant snacks. They are rich in omega-3 fatty acids which are known to support brain health. The healthier your brain is, the better you feel.
5. Blueberries
Just a bowl of tiny little blueberries is enough to get you in a good mood. The high amount of vitamin C and antioxidants make them excellent depression fighting foods. Vitamin C and antioxidants are required by our bodies to help and protect cells when our bodies are under stress. You can freeze them; add them to yogurt or a high-fiber cereal breakfast. Either way, they taste delicious and leave you feeling good.
6. Fatty Fish
Fatty fish like mackerel, swordfish, tuna, salmon and bluefish are excellent sources of omega-3 fatty acids. The fatty acids found in these kinds of fish are known to improve and boost brain health and fight stress and depression. These fatty fish are also good for overall health too as they reduce inflammation and improve blood circulation thus decreasing the chances of heart diseases.
7. Milk And Dairy
Low fat dairy and milk are proven stress-fighting foods. It is well known that a glass of warm milk right before hitting the bed will fight off insomnia and fidgetiness. Milk is a super food and is rich in protein, calcium, vitamin B2 and B12. Blood pressure can be lowered by drinking milk as it contains a protein called lactium. Milk also has potassium which is known to calm and relieve stressed muscles. Low fat dairy is your best bet against stress and depression as it contains calcium and vitamin D which are responsible for providing an overall feeling of well-being.
8. Chamomile Tea
Chamomile tea is a highly recommended bedtime soothing food. Recent studies and researches have proven that chamomile tea is rich in antioxidants and has a calming effect on nerves. It is also known to promote sleep. It is even easy to make. All you need are some dried chamomile flowers or chamomile teabags (easily available at healthy food stores) and some water. Pour some warm water over dried chamomile and sit down and enjoy your nice little cup of tea. Make it a habit to drink one cup every night before you go to sleep. Create a calming and peaceful environment by switching off your phone, TV or computer and let your day end with a peaceful cup of tea.
