Depression Support Group
Depression is a real and debilitating condition that is often misunderstood by family and friends. Its meaning can range from a prolonged period of sadness to an actual mental illness with specific symptoms. Find and share experiences with others who are going through the same struggles.
Hey guys!
As some of you might be aware, I have been doing a fantastic job in these last few months caring for my physical health and well being.
And let me tell you - it is PAYING OFF in more ways than just my physical health!!
I haven't been genuinely depressed in quite a long time and I am willing to put money on the fact that my healthy diet and exercise have contributed to this change significantly.
I was just reading an article about the world's healthiest foods and I came across an interesting fact that I think is worth sharing - particularly with my fellow women on here.
Apparently figs contain a vitamin called B6, which boosts serotonin - which most of you probably know is an important chemical for boosting mood (and, obviously, fighting depression.
The article also says that using birth control pills has been linked to depleted B6 in women who use it - so it is particularly important for those of us who use it to make sure we get extra in our diets.
So I went and looked up what else gives us B6 and came up with the following list of foods:
Potato
Banana
Salmon
Chicken
Spinach
Avocado
Turkey
Hamburger
Fish
Collard Greens
Brown Rice
Green Peas
Another good rule for women in particular to keep in mind is that many of us are low on iron and this can cause fatigue, which clearly does not help us fight depression. Eating lots of greens (the darker the better) daily and red meat around that time of the month is a very good idea.
As some of you might be aware, I have been doing a fantastic job in these last few months caring for my physical health and well being.
And let me tell you - it is PAYING OFF in more ways than just my physical health!!
I haven't been genuinely depressed in quite a long time and I am willing to put money on the fact that my healthy diet and exercise have contributed to this change significantly.
I was just reading an article about the world's healthiest foods and I came across an interesting fact that I think is worth sharing - particularly with my fellow women on here.
Apparently figs contain a vitamin called B6, which boosts serotonin - which most of you probably know is an important chemical for boosting mood (and, obviously, fighting depression.
The article also says that using birth control pills has been linked to depleted B6 in women who use it - so it is particularly important for those of us who use it to make sure we get extra in our diets.
So I went and looked up what else gives us B6 and came up with the following list of foods:
Potato
Banana
Salmon
Chicken
Spinach
Avocado
Turkey
Hamburger
Fish
Collard Greens
Brown Rice
Green Peas
Another good rule for women in particular to keep in mind is that many of us are low on iron and this can cause fatigue, which clearly does not help us fight depression. Eating lots of greens (the darker the better) daily and red meat around that time of the month is a very good idea.
I love everything you mentioned, especially figs and avocados.
Great post, and yes, iron is extremely important. I have to have regular iron injections, because my body depletes it so quickly.
Spinach. Yummy too.
...and I have been totally eating more of these foods lately....
Thank you for sharing this.
you ARE doing a fab job, and GOOD for for knowing it!!
((((hugs))))
I ate figs off our tree as a kid....and also pomegranates....both are great for ya. In fact, anything you eat off a tree is good. xx
I would only add .. a multivitamin can do a lot to ensure good nutrition.
But in all seriousness.. I feel effing fantastic lately, compared to the "usual." Obviously there are still ups and downs (I'm sure some of you saw my post the other night) but overall I've been pretty happy.
Yes, I want to second that motion about healthy food and exercise...Also want to add that fish oil caplets (I use Nordic Naturals but there are a lot of great brands out there) have been scientifically proven to help reduce lethargy and depression...
boom, i miss you!!! hope ur new job is good too!!