Avoid These Foods If You Have Anxiety Or Depression!
Isn’t it a common practice to have something special for dinner or lunch when you have a reason to celebrate? Similarly, it is not unusual for many people to skip a meal or overeat when feeling low or angry. When we are feeling down or happy, we make certain food choices. Our moods affect what we eat. Similarly, what we eat has the power to make a difference in our moods. The effect is more apparent in those who suffer from anxiety or depression as they are more susceptible to mood changes. This also means that making the right food choices can alter our moods to our advantage. Our gut is also known as the second brain and what goes in the gut significantly impacts our mental and emotional wellbeing. Here are some foods to avoid for people susceptible to anxiety or depression.
1. Excessive Sugar
This one is a no-brainer. Sugar increases the glucose levels in the blood leading to a general sense of well-being and happiness. As the glucose levels drop, the person feels low and irritable. Also, sugar has a negative effect on neurons and synapses in the brain. Excessive sugar intake must be avoided.
2. Artificial Sweeteners
Aspartame is an important constituent of all artificial sweeteners. It is also part of colas and diet sodas. Excessive consumption of Aspartame can cause headaches, mood changes and sleep disturbances.
3. Fruit Juices
Drinking juices does not mean you have imbibed the positive benefits of the fruit. Juices are bereft of fibre and may cause a spike in blood sugar levels. For best results, consume whole fruit instead of juice. Packaged juices and beverages are a strict no-no. This can leave you ” feeling fatigued and depleted apart from causing increased mood changes.
4. Processed and Deep Fried Food
Not only is processed food rich in Trans fats and generally quite harmful for your heart and your health, but it may also increase anxiety and symptoms of depression. Processed and deep-fried food also has a high amount of sodium which tends to cause disruptions in the neurological system. So eat the foods that fight fatigue.
5. Alcohol
Alcohol is harmful to your health in multiple ways. Excessive drinking can impact your mood, speech, balance and more. In the long term, alcohol has been shown to affect memory, cognition, balance and mood. People with depression and anxiety must speak to their doctor about assistance quitting alcohol.
6. Caffeine
Those who suffer from depression and anxiety might want to ditch their regular cuppa. Caffeine is a stimulant that disturbs the sleep cycle and causes an energy surge. It also reduces the absorption of important mood-balancing vitamins. The caffeine in energy drinks is equivalent to about 10 cans of soda, so you might want to avoid that too. Choose your drink wisely, moderation is the key.
The best thing would be to identify the foods that trigger depression and anxiety or increase the two for you. Avoid them at all costs to feel better about your life. Healthy eating habits of fresh fruits and vegetables, cereals and whole grains, nuts and seeds, curd and buttermilk when taken adequately, can help improve your gut health and may aid in balancing mood-related problems.
Read More: Types of Bipolar Disorder You Need To Know About
Disclaimer: The information included on this site is for educational purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for medical treatment by a healthcare professional. Because of unique individual needs, the reader should consult their physician to determine the appropriateness of the information for the reader’s situation.
