10 Mood Foods That Fight Depression

According to the National Institute of Mental Health, over 16 million adults in the United States suffer from depression. That’s a staggering 6.7% of the population. And while there are many pharmaceutical treatments available, they don’t work for everyone. For those who are looking for a more natural way to improve their mood and fight depression, there are certain foods that can help. Here are 10 mood foods that have been shown to help improve your mood and fight depression.

Salmon

Salmon is an excellent mood food due to its high levels of omega-3 fatty acids. Omega-3s are beneficial for brain health, and can help to decrease inflammation and improve communication between cells. These effects can lead to a more positive mood and decreased symptoms of depression.

Nuts and Seeds

Nuts and seeds are not only packed with nutrients, but they also contain mood-boosting compounds. For example, Brazil nuts are a good source of selenium, which has been linked to improved mood and cognitive function. Walnuts contain omega-3 fatty acids, which have anti-inflammatory properties and can help to protect the brain against age-related damage. Pumpkin seeds are rich in magnesium, a mineral that plays an important role in nervous system function. Finally, sunflower seeds are a good source of vitamin E, which has been shown to improve mood and reduce anxiety.

Eggs

Eggs are one of the best mood foods out there. They’re packed with nutrients that can help improve your mood and mental health.

For one, eggs are an excellent source of protein. Protein helps promote the production of serotonin, a neurotransmitter that plays a role in regulating mood. Eggs are also rich in omega-3 fatty acids. These healthy fats have been shown to reduce inflammation in the brain and protect against cognitive decline.

What’s more, eggs are a good source of several vitamins and minerals that are essential for good mental health, including vitamin D, iron, and folate. Getting enough of these nutrients has been linked to a lower risk of depression and other mental health disorders.

So if you’re feeling down, crack open an egg or two for a quick mood boost.

Dark Chocolate

Depression can be a difficult thing to overcome, but there are certain foods that can help. One of those foods is dark chocolate. Dark chocolate contains antioxidants and essential nutrients that can boost your mood and help fight depression.

Some studies have shown that dark chocolate can improve cognitive function and reduce the risk of developing Alzheimer’s disease. Other studies have shown that dark chocolate can lower blood pressure and improve circulation. And still other studies have shown that dark chocolate can help to regulate insulin levels and reduce the risk of developing diabetes.

So, if you’re feeling down, reach for some dark chocolate. It just might be the pick-me-up you need to get through the day!

Spinach

Spinach is an excellent source of mood-boosting nutrients like magnesium, folate, and vitamins B6 and B12. These nutrients are essential for proper nervous system function and help to regulate serotonin levels in the brain. Eating spinach regularly can help to prevent or alleviate symptoms of depression.

Blueberries

Blueberries are one of the most potent mood foods out there. These little berries are packed with nutrients like vitamin C, fiber, and antioxidants. Studies have shown that blueberries can help improve mood and cognitive function. One study even found that blueberries may help to reduce the risk of developing depression. So if you’re feeling down, eat some blueberries!

Avocados

Avocados are a great mood food because they contain high levels of both omega-3 fatty acids and folate. Omega-3s are known to be beneficial for brain health, while folate is important for the production of neurotransmitters like serotonin that regulate mood. In addition, avocados are a good source of fiber, which can help to keep you feeling full and satisfied.

Yogurt

Yogurt is a delicious and nutritious food that has many health benefits. It is a good source of protein, calcium, and vitamins A and B12. Yogurt can also help to fight depression. The probiotics in yogurt can help to improve gut health and reduce inflammation, which can lead to a better mood.

Green Tea

Green tea has been shown to be effective in treating depression. Theanine, an amino acid found in green tea, has been shown to increase levels of serotonin and dopamine in the brain. These two neurotransmitters are known to be involved in the development of depression.

In a study published in the Journal of Clinical Psychiatry, researchers found that participants who drank four cups of green tea per day for eight weeks had significantly lower scores on a depression scale than those who did not drink green tea.

Other studies have also shown that green tea can help improve mood and reduce stress. So if you’re feeling down, try sipping on some green tea throughout the day.

Final Thoughts

There are a lot of foods out there that can help improve your mood and fight depression. While some of these foods may not be what you typically think of as “comfort food,” they can still have a positive effect on your mood and mental health. So if you’re feeling down, make sure to try incorporating some of these Mood Foods into your diet. Who knows, they might just be the pick-me-up you need!