5 Healthy Snacks To Help With Depression

Did you know that changing your diet can help you treat depression? Adding more healthy snacks throughout your day will help improve your mood.

In this article, we’ll show you several healthy snacks that can help you with depression and its treatment. In addition, we will also talk about the foods that you should avoid or consume less of if you suffer from this condition.

It is important to remember that food can be used as a supplement, but it is not a substitute for medical treatment. You should see it as a helping hand, in addition to the advice of your doctor.

Depression

The World Health Organization (WHO) says that depression is a common mental illness worldwide. The main features are:

feelings of sadness
guilt

lack of self-esteem

In addition, people who suffer from it may have a lack of interest in pleasure and sleep. They may also experience problems with appetite, concentration and general fatigue.

The WHO also notes that depression can be chronic or occur over certain periods. This greatly affects people’s daily activities and their ability to cope with everyday life.

No one is exempt from this mental disorder. It can affect anyone. After all, everyone experiences stress and anxiety, both at home and at work.

Alarming numbers

According to the World Health Organization, depression affects more than 300 million people worldwide. Between 2005 and 2015, cases increased by more than 18%.

Unfortunately, this disease can lead to serious health problems. If it lasts for a long time, it can get worse or even very serious.

In the worst case, it can lead to suicide. Nearly 800,000 people take their own lives every year. Suicide is the second leading cause of death in the 15-29 age group, according to WHO data.

Treatments

Although there are effective treatments to treat depression, half of people with this condition do not receive these treatments.

One of the main obstacles to treatment is that there are not many resources or experts available. In addition, there is also a great taboo on psychological disorders.

It also happens that people who suffer from depression are misdiagnosed. The opposite also happens, that people who do not suffer from this do get the diagnosis. Unfortunately, many people get antidepressants that they don’t really need.

Today we want to share with you a list of healthy snacks that can help you treat depression. However, you should remember to always talk to your doctor about the best treatment options for you.

5 healthy snacks to help with depression

1. Oats

Believe it or not, your blood sugar levels may have something to do with depression. Fortunately, there are foods that help balance the glucose in your body. In addition, they can help improve your nervous system and emotional well-being.

This is where oats play an important role. Thanks to the fiber contained in oats, they help calm your digestion and keep your blood sugar levels up. This can help prevent sudden mood swings.

In addition, this whole grain also provides your body with vitamins B1, B6 and B5. These nutrients can help you stay emotionally stable. They affect the production of chemicals in the brain that affect your mood.

For example, to take advantage of the benefits of oats, you can eat oatmeal porridge and other variations with oats. You could for example, a fruit salad with toasted oats can eat.

2. Walnuts

Walnuts and other nuts are also one of the most recommended healthy snacks to help with depression. Nuts contain omega-3 fatty acids, an essential element for your brain to work properly. Studies show that low levels of omega 3 fatty acids can be one of the causes of depression.

Nuts could therefore help you to maintain a good mood.

They also help improve your cardiovascular system.
In addition, eating nuts regularly will help you focus and keep your brain active.
In addition, it could help prevent cognitive decline over time.

3. Dark chocolate

Cocoa-rich dark chocolate contains antioxidants that help prevent free radicals from causing problems. Eating it also stimulates serotonin in the brain. This is a substance that improves mood and reduces cortisol.

Dark chocolate is therefore a perfect snack. Eating in small amounts can be very healthy for body and mind. However, make sure you buy chocolate that contains at least 70% cocoa.

4. Bananas or plantains

Both bananas and plantains are rich in magnesium. People who suffer from stress, depression or anxiety can benefit greatly from eating these foods. They give your mineral content a boost.

5. Apples to help with depression

Apples are also a source of antioxidants that help your brain function properly. In addition, they help make neurotransmitters such as dopamine, which help you think positively.

Foods to Avoid in Depression

If you have depression or if you think you might have one, in addition to eating healthy snacks, you should avoid these foods:

Excessive amounts of coffee and caffeinated tea.
High-fat foods.
Foods high in refined sugars.
Soft drinks and alcohol.