Beat The Mild Depression Naturally!
What is mild depression? It's called Dysthymia, when you have more down days than up. It's a mild form of depression caused by low levels of the mood-boosting brain chemical serotonin. It's not as intense as clinical depression, it's very common and can drag on for years without you even knowing it.
So, how do you know you have it? Look below for a sign and then continue reading for some Rxs...
The signs:
a) Often feel tired or sluggish.
b) Struggle with little self-confidence.
c) Have trouble concentrating.
d) Rarely feel productive.
e) Often overeat or don't eat- because of no appetite.
f) Trouble deciding on what to do-in work or at school.
g) Irritable- even there's nothing is wrong.
Now, that you know the signs- here are a few solutions to get your life back on track.
1) More Carbs-
Too few carbs can set the stage for mild depression. Too few carbs lower's the brain's production of serotonin as much as 50%. But, not just any carbs will do. Eat a steady diet of highly processed carbs, like cookies, cakes, candy and sugared sodas and watch blue moods skyrocket. Poor carbs trigger big blood-sugar fluctuations, which sabotage the brain's abiltiy to keep moods on an even keel. So, to keep the dark moods away, maintain a diet high in fruits, vegetables and 3 to 4 servings of fiber-rich complex carbs like whole-grain pasta, breads and cereals.
And be sure to read labels, to make sure you're getting 100% whole-wheat.
2) Move More-
Inactivity is a good friend to mild depression, stay inactive and you only get worse.
Do such activities like walk the dog, rake leaves or join a dance class. To make exercise even more effective- do it outdoors in the sunlight. Sunlight boosts serotonin more effectively than exercise alone.
3) Enjoy Time With Family and Friends-
Spending time with supportive friends and family is proven to boost moods in less than a month.
You can also volunteer or visit veterans, clean up at the animal shelter or become a mentor and get the same effect.
4) More Fat-
Not from burgers, fries and ice cream sundaes, but from fish like salmon, mackerel, trout, herring and sardines. And if your not a fan of fish-eat walnuts, flaxseed, brazil nuts and the spice saffron.
A lack of omega-3 fatty acids is a major reason why mild depression is so prevalent.
And consider countries like Japan and Iceland, where the consumption of fish is high and depression levels are low.
That's it- your guide to beating mild depression and another way to beat the drug companies.
Good Luck!
JGib--
SupermarketRxs!
Comments