How Depression Can Be Treated With the Help of Diet and Exercise ?

If you are suffering from depression, you need to search for professional treatment. But apart from that there are things you can do to reduce the symptoms of depression. A little change in diet and exercise can help change your mood. These two things can help you to a great extent.

Smart and healthy diet-

There is a strong link between mind and body. A balanced diet fuels your body as well as your mind. Depressed people don't have much appetite so their bodies don't get proper nutrition. What we eat affects our mood also. Our diet controls brain chemicals (neurotransmitters-dopamine, serotonin, and norepinephrine) which control mood. Plenty of vegetables, fruits and whole grains increase serotonin production and help to stabilize your mood. High protein diet increase production of dopamine and norepinephrine. Fat and sugar give energy to body but they should be limited in your daily diet. Deficiency of vitamins and minerals give rise to bad mood. Omega-3 fatty acids and vitamin B-12 are good mood busters.

Exercise-

Exercise is the best way to cure depression. Exercise generates energy, removes anxiety and improves mood. Regular exercise builds strength and generates more energy in body. Even a small walk with your friend can help you to sleep better at night. Choose a moderate exercise you enjoy like swimming, gardening, golfing or playing tennis. Joining an exercise group can give better results. Exercise increases the production of brain's natural feel good chemicals.

A combination of good diet and exercise surely will make you feel better.