Is there a link your between your diet and depression?
According to the CDC, since August of 2020, due to the pandemic, the percentage of adults with symptoms of a depression rose from 36.4% to 41.5%.
Depression symptoms can be associated not consuming enough of the following:
- B-vitamins: This group of vitamins are needed for the production of serotonin, dopamine and norepinephrine, which are all related to your mood.
- Protein- Are you eating enough protein? If you are not consuming enough protein then your brain cannot make an adequate amount of the neurotransmitters associated with mood.
- Vit D – Low levels of this important vitamin are extremely common and are associated with a higher rate of depression and seasonal affective disorder.
- Omega-3 fatty acids – these essential fatty acids are not made by the body and must be supplied by the diet. EPA seems to be the most effective at fighting depression.
Incorporating more food containing these nutrients may help but in no way am I recommending this instead of your medication. Always talk to a health professional first. A dietitian can help make sure you are getting the nutrition you need.