How can you fight depression?
A healthy diet, regular exercise, meaningful relationships and spending time in nature are all important steps in preventing depression. Multiple vitamins and minerals, especially the B vitamins and magnesium, are needed for healthy brain function and neurotransmitter production, so supplementation is a consideration. In addition, omega-3 fatty acids, S-adenosylmethionine (SAMe) and saffron are nutrients known to have mood-elevating effects. There are also times when depression requires medical treatment, so it is important to be evaluated by a doctor if your depression is more than a transitory blue mood.
How can you stop mood swings?
Keep a regular schedule, especially when it comes to eating, sleeping and physical activity. For most people, getting between 7-9 hours of sleep per night helps with a positive outlook and optimal function. Eating regularly and avoiding foods that spike blood sugar or that we may be sensitive to, are keys to a consistent mood. For most people, this means plenty of vegetables and fruits, lean or plant based proteins, whole grains and healthy fats. It means skipping the sugar, simple carbs and fried foods. Finally, regular exercise provides blood flow and oxygen to the brain, relieves stress and releases endorphins, which are natural mood elevators.
Why is stress bad for the body?
Momentary stress is critical to survival, since it facilitates our ability to remove ourselves from danger. But chronic stress is detrimental to our health. Ongoing, high levels of the stress hormones cortisol, epinephrine and nor-epinephrine can result in increased body weight, high blood sugar, high blood pressure, a weakened immune system, fatigue, depression, anxiety, insomnia and heart disease.
