The limbic system is situated on either side of the thalamus in the brain and is responsible for emotional control. It is the limbic lobe (the largest part of the limbic system) that controls anger, rage, love, sadness, and grief. Feeling low or sad is one of the prime symptoms of depression and to control it, we need to ensure the proper functioning of the limbic lobe and the brain as a whole.
Meditation, yoga, and spiritual therapies are primarily suggested for curing depression. However, even with these techniques, one has to take proper care of their diet to keep depression and anxiety at bay.
Here are some of the best foods for depression:
1. Green leafy vegetables
Green leafy vegetables are considered to be one of the best foods for depression. These are infused with phytochemicals that are essential for healthy body functions. Besides, it also provides vitamins A, K, C and E, all of which cater to the growth and damage repair of brain cells. Green vegetables have anti-cancerous as well as anti-inflammatory properties. Since depression and inflammation of the brain cells have shown to be directly linked, consuming these have proven to be extremely beneficial.
2. Avocado
Avocados are a rich source of nutrients, vitamins and monounsaturated fatty acids, which makes it one of the best foods for depression. It has oleic acid, vitamin B complexes, vitamin C, K, and E which makes it a better alternative than most of the fruits available in the market. It is low in sugar and higher in fiber content than most of the foods we consume. Thus, it provides the brain with all kinds of necessary proteins and fatty acids which cater to the repair of damaged or inflamed parts of the brain.
3. Walnuts
Walnuts are one of the most highly suggested foods for depression. They are also recommended for maintaining the proper health of the brain and enhancement of its cognitive functioning. Walnuts contain omega-3 fatty acids that directly contribute to brain health. Besides, the various plant chemicals present in walnuts ideally keeps depression at bay.
4. Beans
Beans are one of the best foods for depression. It has low sugar content and works as a mood stabilizer in most cases. A handful of beans every day or every alternate day can help to boost mood to a great extent. Thus, the individual will feel better and positive and a lot less sad.
5. Berries
Being rich in antioxidants, berries are among the highly recommended foods for depression. It not only prevents depression but also reduces anxiety. A person suffering from depression or mood disorders should consume berries every day in the morning or at any time throughout the day. It also helps in preventing the generation of free radicals and assists the normal metabolic activity of the body.
One should consume these foods for depression to keep mood disorders in check. However, along with this, one should also take regular morning or evening walks and meditate for at least 20 minutes every day.