Nowadays, the usage of antidepressants is higher than ever and these meds have become as common as pain relievers and sleeping pills; however, this is not a sign that they are good for our health.
This is because they do not treat the underlying cause of the health problem in question and also because they are full of dangerous chemicals and because some of them may also cause addiction.
This being said, it is always a good idea to turn to natural remedies when trying to solve a health problem. When it comes to antidepressants, the issue with them is that they come with specific side effects like weight gain, mood disorders, emotional numbness, low gut function, etc.
In today’s article, the focus is on 10 specific healthy foods that can help you fight off depression and anxiety easier. According to One Green Planet, when you supply the body with what it needs, the neurotransmitters receive the best fuel they need in order to function optimally. And, remember to also avoid unhealthy foods and drinks so that you ensure a successful outcome.
10 Plant-Based Foods for Optimal Brain Health
- Avocados
This fruit is abundant in good fats, i.e. monounsaturated fats which have been associated with a healthy heart and brain. They are also rich in magnesium, trace amounts of omega-3 fatty acids, potassium, and B vitamins. They will also provide folate which is known to lower stress and anxiousness and will also keep the brain health optimal. You can eat avocados raw, add them in smoothies, combine them with toast, etc.
- Broccoli
This green veggie can do wonders for your brain and it will supply you with protein, calcium, and vitamin B6 and relax your body and improve your mood. It can help with insomnia, anxiety, and sugar cravings too. Opt for a cup of broccoli on the daily. You can prepare it numerous different ways so you will never have enough of it; that is for sure!
- Walnuts
This nut is the only one with traceable amounts of omega-3 fatty acids and it is rich in magnesium too. It can help lower brain inflammation and better the mood. Also, it can be of great aid in balancing the cholesterol levels. What’s more, this superfood is great for stimulating melatonin which is important for sleep (beneficial for people struggling with insomnia). Opt for a quarter cup on the daily.
- Hemp seeds
These seeds contain omega-3 fatty acids, protein, and fiber. They are excellent for improving the mood, relaxing, the body and bettering the mood. Hemp seeds will also supply you with magnesium and iron which are crucial for the health of the brain and for increasing the dopamine in the body naturally.
- Quinoa
This seed contains iron, magnesium, vitamins B, and all essential amino acids and it makes an amazing gluten-free replacement for couscous and a more nutritious one too. Its mineral content plays a pivotal part in the serotonin, GABA, and melatonin release and it will balance the blood sugar levels, improve your mood, and help you fall asleep easier. You can cook it same as rice, bake it with the whole seed, or soak it overnight and combine it with oats in the morning for a delicious and healthy porridge.
- Gluten-free oats
Gluten-free oats, even if you are not actually allergic to gluten, are a better option if you have problems with depression due to the fact that a lot of studies have associated gluten with depression. These oats will supply you with vitamins B, magnesium, iron, protein, calcium, and potassium and will help you increase your energy levels, balance your hormones, stabilize your blood sugar and blood pressure levels, and decrease sugar cravings.
- Flaxseed
These seeds are rich in omega-3 fatty acids and fiber and they can help you decrease the blood pressure and blood sugar levels. Sprinkle some flaxseed on your salads, smoothies, porridges, etc. for a crunchy and healthy kick.
- Chia seeds
These seeds contain iron, amino acids, and B vitamins which are crucial for a healthy brain. Since they are a complete protein, they can be of aid for the neurotransmitter function and the serotonin production in the body. Moreover, they will boost your fiber and omega-3 levels and assist you in decreasing anxiety and depression naturally by maintaining the blood sugar levels steady.
- Sweet potatoes
This carbohydrate has L-tryptophan, an amino acid which can avert anxiousness and depression. They will lower your blood sugar levels, supply you with vitamin B6, and naturally minimize your depression. The potassium and magnesium in them will decrease the high blood pressure and cortisol and minimize stress.
- Leafy greens
These veggies will naturally boost your mood and balance your blood pressure, decrease your sugar cravings, and better the blood flow to the brain. Opt for greens like chard, kale, dandelion, collards, arugula, spinach, butter lettuce, etc.
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