Depression is a well-known medical condition that affects around 7.5 million parents every year in the United States alone. Some studies reveal that depression in parents has a great impact on the social, mental, and emotional well-being of children. Parental depression is known to affect the ability of parents to nurture their children and attend to their needs.
Depressed women are likely to be less responsive and less attentive to the needs of their partners and their children. They can also experience poor decision making and judgment. Maternal depression is also being associated with poor academic performance of children.
Despite the availability of various treatment options for depression, many parents who are suffering from the said condition are still apprehensive to seek help. Fortunately, there are available alternative treatments to fight depression. There are several foods that have been shown to help fight depression including:
Cold Water and Fatty Fish: This type of fish is an excellent source of Omega-3 fatty acids that are being linked with the prevention of depression. Moreover, dietary supplements that contain fish oil are known to ease the symptoms of this medical condition. Examples of this type of fish are tuna, salmon, and mackerel. It is important that individuals should be cautious when eating this type of fish as some of them might contain mercury that might be harmful when taken too much. In this regard, it is advisable that only two servings of fish should be consumed every weak.
Beets: Beets are good source of folate, a B vitamin that can prevent depression and promote good mood when taken in the recommended dietary amount. Aside from folate, beets also contain betaine and uridine that serve as natural anti-depressants.
Turkey: Turkey meat is rich in protein and essential fats. It is also a good source of tryptophan, an amino acid that is responsible for producing serotonin. Serotonin is a hormone naturally found in the brain that helps relieve depression and regulate moods.
Dark Chocolate: The benefit that dark chocolate provides can be attributed to phenylethylamine that is commonly found in cocoa, the main ingredient used in making chocolates. Phenylethylamine is a chemical that is normally used in stimulants and anti-depressant. It also helps fight off stress.
Whole Grains: Whole grains such as brown rice and oatmeal are good sources of magnesium, a mineral that helps relieve the symptoms of depression.
Mushrooms: Mushrooms are an excellent source of selenium and vitamin D. Research reveals the selenium deficiency is associated with depression. By eating mushroom and other food sources of selenium, individuals can meet the recommended the dietary requirement for said mineral.
Sweet Potatoes: This food provides an excellent source of folate, carbohydrates, and vitamin B6. Folate and vitamin B6 helps in balancing the neurotransmitter in the brain.
Depression can have serious implications for parents and their children. Parents who are suffering from depression should consult their health care provider about the possible treatment for their condition. Moreover, eating foods that are rich in omega-3 fatty acids, folate, and phenylethylamine can also help relieve the symptoms of depression. By seeking professional help and eating these foods, parents can eat their way out of depression.
Being emotionally and physically prepared to become a parent is hard, but it is not impossible. Visit MomsWise for more information about pregnancy, motherhood, and parenting.
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