Depression, anxiety, and post-traumatic stress disorder – these conditions have become common in recent times. As more and more people across the world suffer from these disorders, a variety of treatments, counsellings, and therapies have been discovered to treat them.
One of the best ways to treat the conditions of depression, anxiety, and other such ailments lies in the food that the person suffering from them eats. Food has a direct consequence on the wellness of the human mind, hormones that control it, and emotions. In fact, researchers have found certain food substances to be particularly effective in countering, tackling, and eliminating stress and stress-related mental disorders.
In this article, we tell you about six such food substances that you can use in case someone is suffering from depression, anxiety, post-traumatic stress disorder, or any other mental or emotional condition. In fact, by incorporating these substances in the diet, you are likely to see the difference in a few days.
Now let us get straight into it!
1. Psilocybin (Mushrooms)
Psilocybin is one of the few natural substances that are considered highly effective in the treatment of menthol ailments. The interesting part is that this substance is exclusive to mushrooms, and is found in more than 75 of its species. The most popular amongst these is Psilocybe Mexicana, also known as “Magic Mushroom” for its almost miraculous effectiveness in treating depression and other health benefits. In fact, Psilocybin mushroom Canada is one of the most popular natural antidepressants in the country.
The science behind it goes like this: Upon ingestion, Psilocybin is spontaneously converted into psilocin, which is a psychoactive agent. This substance has the ability to stimulate one specific serotonin receptor called 5HT2A. Hence, it eases out the symptoms of depression and anxiety.
Food items to eat: Psilocybe African Transkei, the ‘Magic Mushroom
2. Selenium
Several studies have been done over the years that established a direct link between Selenium level in the body and the person’s mood. Low Selenium corresponds to a bad mood and normal Selenium level leads to a good mood and mental health. The 55 micrograms Selenium consumption per day is recommended for an average adult is normal
Therefore, it is helpful for anyone suffering from mental health issues and anxiety, to have food that is rich in Selenium. It helps maintain the normal level of the substance in the body.
Food items to eat: Beans, legumes, dairy products, lean meat, nuts & seeds, whole grains, and seafood.
3. Omega-3 Fatty Acids
Evidence shows that the people who do not actively consume Omega-3 fatty acids are more prone to neuro depressive disorders. In fact, the reverse studies confirm that the people who were diagnosed with depression are found to have low levels of Omega-3 fatty acids.
Given the critical role played by Omega-3 Fatty acids in determining good mental health, it is recommended to eat food items that are rich sources of Omega-3. The best part is that the Omega-3 fatty acids are extremely beneficial for the heart and help maintain good cardiovascular fitness as well.
Food items to eat: Fish (anchovy, mackerel, salmon, sardines, shad, and tun varieties in particular), Flaxseed, Soybean, nuts (especially walnuts), and green leafy vegetables.
4. Thiamine and Folate
Thiamine and Folate are two different varieties of Vitamin B. Thiamine is Vitamin B1 whereas Folate is Vitamin B9. A study done in Spain a few years back showed that the depression rates were higher in the men who smoked, as the folate levels diminished in them.
Further, the same thing was observed in women who smoked and followed an inactive lifestyle, again attributed to low levels of Vitamin B.
A good way to maintain good levels of Vitamin B consumption and tackle depression is to follow a Mediterranean diet. Such a diet includes a balanced mix of plant and animal-based food products and acts as a source of Vitamin B and other nutrients in sufficient amounts.
Food items to eat: Legumes, nuts, green vegetables (Spinach in particular), fruits, fish, and low-fat dairy products.
5. Protein
Though it is a largely ignored fact, protein is as important for your brain as it is for the growth of the body and building a good physique. Protein consumption boosts your energy and helps clear up your mind. Further, the foods that are rich in protein also act as sources of an amino acid called tryptophan. This may help you make serotonin, a substance considered important for good mental and emotional health.
Therefore, no matter whether you want to work on your physique, or mental wellness, or both, it is important to have a diet rich in proteins.
Food items to eat: Beans, lean beef, dairy products, fish, poultry, all soy products, and yogurt.
6. Antioxidants
Everyone knows how important antioxidants are for good physical health and fitness. However, they play an equally important role in maintaining good mental health and keep stress and depression at bay.
The job of antioxidants is to neutralize and eliminate the free radicles produced in the body. If not countered, these free radicals can cause serious harm to the brain and hamper their normal functioning. It is recommended to eat a diet that is rich in antioxidants, so that the effects of free radicals on the brain and neuro functioning can be taken care of. Vitamin E and Vitamin C act as good antioxidants for the body and mind.
Food items to eat: Apricots, Broccoli, Vegetable Oils, nuts, fruits, and green leafy vegetables
Bottom Line
There are plenty of food items like Psilocybin mushroom Canada that contain substances that are highly effective in the treatment of depression, anxiety, and other mental disorders. Incorporating them into the diet of the patient can have extremely positive results for mental health as well as overall well-being.
Please note that while these substances do have therapeutic value for the treatment of depression and anxiety, these are not a replacement for medical treatment. Please consult your doctor if you are facing any symptoms of mental ailment. Further, do not consume any of these substances if you are allergic/intolerant to them.
