Foods that Reduce the Effects of Depression

Depression is characterized by experiencing low self-esteem, sadness, loss of interest in all activities, etc. for a prolonged period of time. In severe cases of depression, one might even contemplate the thought of committing suicide. Although there are quite a few factors that can trigger depression, it is possible to fight this psychological problem in a number of ways. One method to ease depression that works for almost everyone is to eat healthy foods. There are many foods that have the ability to fight depression. Including the below mentioned foods in your daily diet is the safest way of easing the symptoms of depression.

B Vitamins

B vitamins play a crucial role in helping to maintain the mental balance. Deficiency in B vitamins like vitamin B6, pyridoxine, and folate can cause depression. Vitamin B6 is extremely important for mental well-being as it performs the task of balancing the neurotransmitters, which are responsible for controlling anxiety and helping you stay calm. Most fruits and vegetables are a good source of B vitamins. People suffering from depression should eat more of spinach, sweet potatoes, avocados, bread, chicken, and black beans.

Iron

Iron deficiency can make a person feel depressed far too easily. Iron deficiency affects many people in the form of anemia, and it is also a common symptom of PMS in women. Some iron rich foods that should be a part of your daily diet include green leafy vegetables, meats, kale, legumes, and cereals.

Vitamin E

Vitamin E is considered to be one of the best depressing fighting vitamins. This well-known antioxidant helps to boost the immunity levels, strengthens red blood cells, and prevents infections. Vegetables, fruits, wheat, and various kinds of nuts and seeds are some good sources of vitamin E.

Zinc

Eating foods rich in zinc is another good way of fighting depression. Zinc plays a crucial part in metabolism and digestion. It is also helpful in fighting fatigue. Some excellent sources of zinc include whole grains, oysters, wheat germ, and pumpkin seeds.

Calcium

Studies have shown that calcium deficiency can cause depression and fatigue. Calcium is known to promote sound sleep. Milk, cheese, dairy products, broccoli, orange juice, and tofu are all good sources of calcium.

Selenium

Selenium is also very effective against depression. It is present in mushrooms, poultry, seafood, and wheat. Selenium not only helps to ease depression by filling a person with energy, but it also fights against various forms of cancers.

Water

Dehydrating is one of the leading causes of depression and fatigue. Drinking plenty of water promotes good mood, improves mind power, and also makes your skin glow. Water improves a person’s mood by removing toxicity out of the body.

Carbohydrates

Carbohydrates are very helpful in the production of serotonin, which is known to make one feel happy. Carbohydrates also cause a rise in the level so tryptophan, which in turn facilitates serotonin production. It is recommended to have good carbs like cereals and whole grains.

Omega-3 Fatty Acids

Omega-3 fatty acids are present in fish like tuna and salmon, nuts like walnuts, and canola oil. Omega-3 fatty acids not only help to fight depression, but they are also excellent for your heart.


Some of the best foods that help to ease depression include tuna, papaya, apples, peaches, apricots, broccoli, mangoes, whole grains, strawberries, guava, whole milk, and grapefruit. Eating these foods on a regular basis is a delicious way of fighting depression.