We are not made to rely on drugs to fix our problems and should always look for natural remedies first. Antidepressants either promote serotonin in the body or both serotonin and dopamine (feel good hormones). They sometimes cause an imbalance and side effects such as weight gain, reduced gut function, mood disorders, emotional numbness, and some many even make depression worse.
Depression can be genetically passed down and often associated with other mental illnesses such as OCD, eating disorders, anxiety, panic disorders, and often even related to autoimmune disorders.
Drugs are chemically produced in a lab, synthetic prescription drugs can only do so much and may produce more harm than good. Natural foods have been around since the beginning of time. Our bodies recognize them and our brains love them.
Coming off sugar helps with depression, anxiety, epilepsy, disorder eating, and OCD.
Then coming off refined grains and processed foods.
Healthy foods nourish the brain for the production of necessary neurotransmitters, such as GABA, serotonin, and dopamine. Amino Acids are also required along with fresh produce and high-quality fats.
Chia Seeds
Packed with Amino Acids, iron, and B vitamins which are must haves for the brain. They are a complete protein and assist with optimal neurotransmitter function and the production of omega-3’s and fiber. Omega 3’s help reduce depression, anxiety and assist with healthy BS levels. Blood sugar falls, insulin spikes and then falls and a bad mood is triggered and often sugar cravings.
Sweet Potatoes
Great carb that contains L-tryptophan, an amino acid related to helping prevent depression and anxiety. They reduce BS levels and are high in vitamin B6 (a natural anti-depressant). Also high in magnesium and potassium which reduces cortisol and high blood pressure that increases with stress.
Avocados
High in beneficial fat for the brain including monounsaturated fats that have been linked to healthy brain and heart. They also contain magnesium, trace amounts of omega-3’s, B vitamins and potassium and high level of folate acid (a B vitamin that directly reduces stress and anxiety, and promotes healthy brain function.
Flax
One of the best sources of omega-3’s (higher than Chia). Also packed with fiber to reduce BS levels and contributes to better BP.
Gluten-Free Oats
Loaded with brain benefits. Studies link gluten to depression. Oats are packed with vitamins, protein, magnesium, iron, potassium, and calcium. These work together to release feel-good hormones, promote steady energy levels in the body, reduce BS and BP and help with sleep and sugar cravings. Use plain oats without sugar and add almonds, cashews, or coconut milk for a dairy-free breakfast.
Broccoli
Great for your brain and a great source of vitamin B6, protein, and calcium which promote relaxation and a happy mood. Also reduces anxiety, insomnia, and can help reduce sugary cravings.
Quinoa
Complete protein and a natural anti-depressant. High in magnesium, iron, B vitamins, and all essential amino acids. It’s gluten-free and has a high mineral content which plays a part in releasing serotonin, GABA, and even melatonin which aids in sleep. Natural carbohydrates are slow releasing which is great for optimal BS and a long lasting happy mood.
Hemp
Extremely high in omega-3’s, complete protein, and fiber. Great mood enhancers, and promote relaxation and happiness in the body. One of the richest sources of magnesium and iron which are critical to healthy brain function, and one of the best for improving dopamine production without chemicals or stimulants.
Walnuts
The only nut to contain traceable amounts of omega-3 fatty acids and high in magnesium as well. They decrease inflammation in the brain that can interfere with a healthy mood and contribute to healthy cholesterol levels. They help induce melatonin in the body which helps with sleep, and prevent sugar cravings.
Leafy greens are phenomenal for depression. High in magnesium, B vitamins, iron, and they promote a happy mood. Greens can help stabilize BP, improve healthy blood flow to the brain, reduce sugar cravings, improve amino acid uptake, are high in vitamin C to improve iron absorption. Choose kale, romaine, chard, dandelions, arugula, collards, spinach, butter lettuce, leaf lettuce and herb and spring mixes.
Probiotic Rich Foods
Vital for brain health (our gut bacteria is what produces serotonin in the body). Add fermented and cultured foods such as kefir, sauerkraut, kimichi, yogurt, and apple cider vinegar. Eliminate sugar, refined grains and most processed foods.