As surprising as it sounds, food can contribute to depression and feelings of heartache. So next time you want to sulk over a tub ice-cream, please think again, because science has come up with eight such foods that can make your pain worse.
Artificial Sweeteners
As harmless as they seem, artificial sweeteners contain Aspartame that contributes to depression in a major way. It blocks the production of serotonin ( the feel good hormone) that leads to insomnia, headaches, and mood-dips.
Alcohol
Yes, you read that right. Next time you want to drown your hurt and pain via liquor, please reconsider as it tends to slow down the central nervous system. Our central nervous system is the controlling function behind reasoning and understanding. However, consumption of alcohol limits these activities thereby making depression seem even worse.
Caffeine
Caffeine is not the answer to feelings of depression or erratic mood swings. Caffeine in any form (via energy drinks or coffee) can be quite a nightmare as it disrupts sleep and can make one irritable due to lack of sleep or otherwise. Therefore, instead of helping the cause, it might rather worsen the whole situation by agitating the sufferer.
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Sodium rich Foods
Food high in sodium is bad news for the depressed as it tends to create neurological instability. The imbalance can create a feeling of fatigue and also muck up the response of our immunity system.
Whole-Wheat Bread
Yes, gluten can be a nightmare for those suffering from high anxiety levels. The whole wheat bread tends to increase feelings of anxiety, nervousness, and depression by causing mood swings as well as cognitive instability.
Deep Fried Foods
Hydrogenated oils are present in foods like fried chicken, French fries, fried calamari and yes basically everything high in fat (trans-fat and saturated fats).Sulking in fried chicken seems like a dream, but is not a good idea as it blocks blood flow thereby contributing to depression and mood dips.
Processed Food
Like everything unhealthy wasn’t already on this list, processed foods like pasta, bread, and snacks also contribute to depression and feeling unpredictable blues. These foods are packed with ingredients that might initially cause an insulin boost, but as all good things come to an end, they gradually end up making you feel irritable and cranky.
Sugar
Refined sugar is one of the main reasons behind ailments like diabetes, depression, and dementia. The sudden elevation in glucose levels might make you feel good, but high intake of refined sugar can put you at a greater risk of depression thereby making you feel worse about yourself.
While all good things come to an end, all bad things do too. We did mention a list of foods that you must avoid when feeling depressed; there is light at the end of the tunnel. There is also a list of foods like avocado and green tea that are so rich in proteins as well as minerals that they lift your mood and create a sense of elation.
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