While lavender, hops, maypop, lemon balm, and
In recent years, St. John's wort has been studied extensively as a treatment for depression. Most studies show that St. John's wort may help treat mild-to-moderate depression, and has fewer side effects than most other prescription antidepressants.
Foods with the highest 'antidepressant food scores' (AFS) were bivalves such as oysters and mussels, other seafood, organ meats, leafy greens, lettuces, peppers, and cruciferous vegetables such as broccoli, cauliflower, cabbage, kale, and Brussels sprouts.
Some of the best vitamins for depression include vitamin D, iron, B9 (folate), calcium, vitamin C, and vitamins B12 and B3. Keep reading to learn more about vitamins that help with depression so you can make informed decisions about how best to treat your symptoms of depression.
These include carrots, dark leafy greens such as spinach, lettuce, cucumber, apples, bananas, grapefruit, other citrus fruits, fresh berries, and kiwifruit.
Fresh, plant based foods, such as berries, are good sources of antioxidants. A diet that is rich in fresh fruits and vegetables, soy, and other plant products may help reduce the stress-related symptoms of depression. Click here to learn more about which foods contain antioxidants.
Early research suggests that some adaptogenic herbs, including R. rosea, ginseng, and ashwagandha, may help boost serotonin and improve mood.
The plant, generally known as sceletium, kanna, channa or kougoed (Mesembryanthemum tortuosum L.), is a succulent herb commonly found in the dry western parts of South Africa [1]. It is a traditional medicinal plant utilized for relieving abdominal pain, hunger and to enhance mood.
Basil and Tulsi (Holy Basil) is high in B vitamins, which are necessary for the production and regulation of neurotransmitters such as serotonin. 5. Ashwaganda increases serotonin levels in the brain. This herb is most commonly enjoyed as a tincture or supplement.
A 2008 study on St. John's Wort conclusively showed that the herb could manage depression symptoms as effectively as some prescribed antidepressant medication in the United States.
St.
John's wort (Hypericum perforatum) is one of the most popular natural antidepressants. It compares favorably when tested against numerous antidepressant medications. However, just because St. John's wort is natural, doesn't mean that it is without risks.
You can also limit foods that can negatively affect serotonin levels. Alcohol, aspartame, caffeine, trans fat, and fructose can be limited or eliminated from your diet to support healthy serotonin levels.
Vitamin B6, also known as pyridoxine, has special importance as a precursor of serotonin and tryptophan and can also play a role in behavior and mood. Magnesium is essential for many biochemical reactions in the body and brain.
Take Serotonin-Boosting Nutritional Supplements
5-hydroxytryptophan (5-HTP), curcumin, St. John's Wort, magnesium, and B vitamins have all been associated with increased serotonin levels in studies.
Foods rich in zinc such as oysters, cashews, liver, beef, and egg yolks have been linked to lowered anxiety. Other foods, including fatty fish like wild Alaskan salmon, contain omega-3 fatty acids. A study completed on medical students in 2011 was one of the first to show that omega-3s may help reduce anxiety.
According to the Psychiatric Times, blueberries are the number one superfood used to alleviate the symptoms of depression. The reason is linked to its powerful effect on the brain. Blueberries trigger neurological responses in the brain. Because of this, they've been shown to significantly improve mood and cognition.
Research suggests that while not all people with depression have low magnesium, those that do might be more likely to see symptom improvement with magnesium supplements. This may also suggest that getting enough magnesium in your diet can possibly help to prevent depression.
Answer From Daniel K. Hall-Flavin, M.D. Vitamin B-12 and other B vitamins play a role in producing brain chemicals that affect mood and other brain functions. Low levels of B-12 and other B vitamins such as vitamin B-6 and folate may be linked to depression.
Like vitamin D, vitamin B12 has so many mental benefits. Getting enough vitamin B12 may give you more energy, improve memory, and make learning new things easier. It also has been shown to help improve mood and lessen depressive symptoms.