Till now, we believed psychological disturbances to be the main reason behind depression. At the same time, food items, at least some of them, were considered to be one of the tools that help fight depression. However, it is now being noticed that certain types of food, if consumed in excess, can create the feeling of depression in an individual. The reason for this is the fact that certain type of foods are low in cholesterol, sugars and fat, at the same time being high in protein. This combination leads to low production of serotonin, ‘the happy-maker’ neurotransmitter, and in turn, makes you feel depressed. In the following lines, we have provided a list of foods responsible for causing depression. Try to consume these food items in moderation and compensate the loss with other foods.
Foods That Cause Depression
Serotonin Lowering Foods
Lack of serotonin in foods leads to depression. Apple, nuts (Brazil nuts, peanuts, walnuts, etc), avocado, canned green peas, horsemeat, egg, milk and salmon are known to lower the level of serotonin, which creates a chemical imbalance in the brain and therefore, lead to the state of depression.
Low Carb Foods
Lack of carbohydrates is one of the predominant reasons why people get depressed often, when they eat low-carb foods excessively. Carbohydrates have a chief function of aiding the brain in the production of serotonin. Low production of serotonin triggers depression. Some low carb foods that can be a reason for depression include raspberries, cranberries, mushroom, eggplant, tomatillos.
Foods Low in Tryptophan
Just like carbohydrates, tryptophan is also essential for the production of serotonin, a lack of which causes depression. Proteins sources including lean meat, fish and turkey lack tryptophan.
Alcohol
Alcohol is not only injurious to the liver, but also to the overall health. It triggers depression too. Therefore, consumption of alcoholic drinks is strictly not recommended for those who are the victim of depression and related disorders.
Stimulants
Stimulants might give you instant energy, but beware; they may any time become a root cause for the condition of depression. High-caffeine intake triggers anxiety, depression and insomnia too. Therefore, coffee should be had in moderation, if you want to stay away from depression.
Processed Foods
Processed foods are a strict no-no, if you are suffering from anxiety related disorders and sleeplessness, because such foods might trigger depression. Heavily processed foods are laden with sodium, which adds to depression. Therefore, fast food, canned food and pre-packaged dehydrated food should not be consumed. Stay away from white bread, pasta (made with eggs), white rice, etc.
Other Foods That Cause Depression
Almond, beef (muscles only), bread rolls, cheddar cheese, chicken breast, coconut, corn flakes, goose, lamb (muscles only), lamb’s lettuce, lentil, lobster, mackerel, mandarins, oyster, quark, fresh cheese, rolled oats, rye bread, shredded wheat bread, soya bean, sunflower seed, sweet corn, tuna, white beans, yogurt.
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