Foods have a major influence on almost every part of our body, including the brain. Therefore, load up your body with the right foods to drive away depression. Nutrient-deprived junk food is one of the major causes of depression. If you are clinically diagnosed as suffering from depression, you need to see a physician. Along with that, you could try out the following recommendations-

Stay Away from Wheat

Avoid wheat and wheat products in your diet. The gluten in wheat is implicated in depression.

Increase Complex Carbohydrates

If you are stressed, worked up or nervous and wish to become more relaxed, consume more complex carbohydrates such as potatoes, brown rice, pasta, idlis, whole pulses and vegetables such as sweet potato, yam and arbi. Fish contains Omega-3 fats, which are effective in warding off depression and lifting up moods. Moreover, fish helps in losing weight while making you healthier.

Say No to Alcohol

Avoid alcohol since it precipitates hypoglycemia and causes further depression. Moreover, alcohol consumption leads to weight gain, which will just add to your depression.

Stay Far from Fried Foods

Avoid deep fried foods since they get digested slowly. They prevent the digestion of other foods and lead to sluggishness and lack of mental alertness. Moreover, they make you put on excess weight.

Reduce your Sugar Intake

Most people who are stressed, develop a sweet tooth. Sugar gives you an instant mood lift, but this is quickly followed by fatigue.

Exercise is the Way Forward

Exercise is an excellent antidote for depression. Vigorous exercise makes your brain produce endorphin, which causes a natural high and helps fight depression. Moreover, exercise helps you lose weight and stay fit.

Music for Good Mood

Listen to some peppy music since music is a powerful mood elevator.

Increase Vitamin Intake

A healthy intake of vitamins and minerals is important for anyone who wants to get rid of this health problem. Research shows that if you are deficient in Thiamine and Riboflavin (B₁ & B₂), it may lead to depression. Low levels of folic acid and zinc are found in stressed out people.

Consume More of Vital Minerals

Certain minerals such as calcium and magnesium have a beneficial and calming effect on stressed individuals. The mineral chromium normalises sugar metabolism and prevents hypoglycemia.

Exposure to Sunlight

The best thing about exposure to sunlight or just bright light is that it helps the body regulate its production of melatonin, which is a hormone responsible for preventing depression.

Keep Yourself Occupied

Stay busy, take adequate rest in between your work, and think positive. It can help you fight this health issue better. An optimistic attitude makes people happier and in turn healthier.