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Eat the right food to dispel the blues
We all feel sad from time to time, but it’s a serious disorder if the feeling of sadness is continuous. Depression may look and sound like the blues, but it lasts longer and has a profound effect on the body.
Signs of depression include losing interest in friends or hobbies. For those affected, work becomes dull, they either sleep too much or too little, you find it difficult to concentrate on anything and develop a nonchalant attitude.
WHO IS PRONE?
People who are sensitive and insecure are more prone to depression. Women are more likely to suffer from depression as compared to their male counterparts. Depression in women can be attributed to hormonal factors, premenstrual syndrome, menopause, low haemoglobin levels etc. Depression can also be genetic.
Natural remedies: What you choose to eat has a profound effect on your mental health. If people haven’t been eating right most of their lives, then it can affect their health in their 40s or 50s.
Eat more carbohydrates:
Foods rich in carbohydrates such as rice, potatoes, pasta and bread, helps to build up brain chemicals such a serotonin that affect one’s mood and is often found to be lacking in depressed people. High levels of serotonin elevates mood and promotes a feeling of well-being and satiety.
Increase your intake of tryptophan: Tryptophan is an amino acid required in the production of serotonin — the ‘feel good’ eurotransmitter. Eating foods rich in tryptophan such as pumpkin seeds and sunflower seeds can be helpful.
Vitamin B complex: These vitamins (thiamine, riboflavin, etc.) help our neurotransmitters to function properly, which in turn affects our sense of well-being. Food rich in B vitamins include wheatgerm, whole grains, green vegetables, nuts and seeds.
Rosemary oil: This is an essential oil, which is a favourite among aromatherapists for treating depression. A few drops of this oil can be mixed in any vegetable oil or massage lotion. It helps to stimulate the central nervous system and relieves anxiety.