Foods have a profound impact on our mental and physical health. Certain foods can boost our energy, lift our moods, and make us happy. You can also be completely depressed or fatigued by certain foods.
- Foods are more than just a way to nourish the body.
- Certain foods can cause depression.
- Simple food choices can change your life.
Food is the best medicine. It ensures that the body receives the essential nutrients it needs and keeps it running smoothly. Did you know that foods are more than just nourishing our bodies? Foods have a profound impact on our mental and physical health. Some foods can boost our energy, mood, and happiness. Some foods can cause fatigue and depression, while others cancel out brain chemicals. It is best to avoid these foods. If these foods are consumed in excess, they can cause depression symptoms.
Dr. Sunali Sharma (Dietician & Nutritionist at Amandeep Hospitals) stated that “Simple changes in your diet can make a big difference in your life and impact your health.” According to research, some foods can cause anxiety or depression for those already suffering from depression. Avoid excessive sugar, alcohol, and hydrogenated oil.
High-sodium foods
High sodium foods may be dangerous for your mental health. These foods may cause depression and fatigue and even damage your immune system. Excess salt can also cause bloating, water retention, and irritability. Reduce your intake of processed foods, such as frozen foods, sauces, cereals, and baked goods, if you don’t want to feel depressed or irritable.
Alcohol
Since its inception, alcohol has been classified as a hazardous product. It is associated with serious health problems. The central nervous system controls motor function, sensory information, and other functions. Excessive alcohol consumption can slow down this process, increasing depression symptoms. Dr. Sunali explains that alcohol creates a cluster in the central nervous system responsible for emotion flow. In simple terms, alcohol can be described as a depressant.
Caffeine
Excessive intake of caffeine may cause the benefits of coffee to be reversed. This can cause insomnia, anxiety, and agitation, leading to depression. Numerous studies have shown that energy drinks can have many health risks due to their high caffeine content.
Processed food
Processed food is bad for your waistline, but it can also be detrimental to your mental health. Refined or processed carbohydrates such as white bread, fried foods, and other junk food can quickly spike blood sugar levels. This may give you an energy boost but eventually leave you feeling tired, irritable, and sad.
Refined Sugar
Sugar, whether it is refined or artificial, can cause depression. These sweet treats can also cause a disturbance in your sleep, leading to irritated, dull, and depressed moods. Dr. Sunali says that excessive sugar intake can cause your brain to work at an unhealthy level, which increases your risk of developing depression or other mental illnesses.
Oils
That’s right. Some vegetable oils, such as sunflower oil, soybean oil and canola oil, are hydrogenated. Trans fats can cause depression. They cause inflammation and further increase mood swings. According to a study published by the journal PLOS One, trans-fats that block arteries can increase the risk of developing depression by up to 48 percent.
These foods aren’t to be eliminated. We ask you to limit their consumption.
