Diet and Depression

Numerous researches have pointed out that depressed people are sometimes deficient in certain vital nutrients. Certain studies have also suggested that taking certain minerals and vitamins can be a part of treatment.

A carbohydrate rich diet which includes oats, whole wheat and bananas produces serotonin, a chemical which enhances mood. Deficiency in vitamin B, magnesium, zinc and iron can be a cause for depression. Increased intake of colored fruits and vegetables are ideal for depressed patients. Avoiding fatty food and too much of sugar is also helpful. Certain food items can be a cause for depression. The ideal method to find out such food items is through a discussion with your therapist.

Irrespective of whether a person is suffering from depression or not, it is always better to have a well-balanced diet. Those people who are unable to have a well-balanced diet can have vitamin and mineral supplements. It will be foolish to suggest that a particular diet will work for all depression patients. Each patient will be having a different deficiency and a separate diet will be needed and this can only be suggested by a therapist. The best thing a patient can do is to include diet in the discussion with a therapist.