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Depression is a disease that affects between 8 and 15% of the world’s population at some point in their life. According to WHO, 350 million people suffer from depression, constituting the largest cause of disability in the world.

What happens when we are depressed?

The most well-known symptoms of depression are constant sadness, the loss of energy and a loss of interest in things you once enjoyed. Other symptoms can be irritability, the feeling of guilt or worthlessness, loss of self-confidence, sleep troubles, decreased appetite and libido, and for some, thoughts of death and suicidal tendencies.

It’s so important that we take care of ourselves not just physically but, mentally as well. Having a healthy mind and body should be at the top of everyone’s priority list.  

I want to emphasize that if and when you suffer from depression it is important that you receive specialized medical treatment and never self-medicate. 

According to recent studies published by Dr.Vicent Balanzá Martínez, Psychiatrist and Associate Professor of Psychiatry at the University of Valencia,“Depression is the result of an imbalance between neurotransmitters such as serotonin, norepinephrine and dopamine, which can be restored through treatments with antidepressants.” “People who are depressed have high concentrations of pro-inflammatory cytokines in their peripheral blood. In other words, the resistance to antidepressant treatments shown by some people is due, in part, to increased systemic inflammation. This suggests the need to complement the drugs with other approaches that have shown proven anti-inflammatory effects ”. 

Using Fatty Acids To Help Fight Depression

According to their study, omega-3 and 6 which are fatty acids may have anti-inflammatory properties. Furthermore, “they are important constituents of the cell membrane and are essential to survival, but since they cannot be synthesized in the human body, they must be obtained from our diet.”

Combining antidepressants with a better diet could help in fighting this difficult disease. The best sources of Omega-3 are avocados, chia seeds, nuts, and of course, Blue fish(also known as Oily fish), such as sardines, tuna, salmon, and cod liver oil. Eating these foods frequently can help fight the symptoms of depression, prevent cardiovascular disease, and can be very beneficial for our brain.

As you can see, everything in our body is interconnected. Having a healthy lifestyle helps prevent and improve various physical and mental conditions and diseases.

2 Healthy, Natural Recipes To Help Fight Depression

•  Tuna Fillet with Quinoa and Celery 
•  Avocado Salads