Eating Bananas to Fight Depression: Fact or Fiction? Consuming Foods High in Vitamin B6, Tryptophan, and Omega-3 May Also Improve Mood.
Boston, MA (WS News Publisher) – How your eating habits can affect your mood: what you consume can make a difference. Mind-body medicine specialist Eva Selhub, MD, proposed Nutritional psychiatry: Your brain on food to express a link between diet and the risk of depression. Eva Selhub, MD, regards food as the supply fuel of the brain. All the components in the fuel are different. Therefore, what you eat directly affects the structure and function of the brain and ultimately affects human emotions.
The Psychiatry Research Dietary patterns and depression risk: A meta-analysis also shows associations between dietary patterns and depression risk. The study obtained concluded:
“A dietary pattern characterized by a high intake of fruit, vegetables, whole grain, fish, olive oil, low-fat dairy and antioxidants and low intakes of animal foods was apparently associated with a decreased risk of depression. A dietary pattern characterized by high consumption of red and/or processed meat, refined grains, sweets, high-fat dairy products, butter, potatoes and high-fat gravy, and low intakes of fruits and vegetables is associated with an increased risk of depression.”
Modern people are under a lot of work pressure and are prone to negative emotions, especially in the autumn and winter seasons. The two key ingredients in bananas are vitamin B6 and tryptophan. They can alleviate symptoms of depression and together form dynamic brain chemicals, which can bring you a lot of positive resonance.
Tryptophan? Studies have shown that tryptophan can slow down negative emotions and help sleep. If you have not relaxed after eating bananas, it is recommended to drink another glass of milk to help turn your mood in a positive direction.
The essential amino acids that cannot be synthesized by the human body must be extracted from food. Tryptophan will first be converted into the neurotransmitter serotonin and then into melatonin. Vitamin B6 is needed as a coenzyme during the conversion process to successfully synthesize the sleeping hormone melatonin.
The banana contains vitamin B6 and tryptophan, so it is a food that helps stabilize mood. In addition, there are many food rich in vitamin B6 and tryptophan.
● Eggs
Eggs are one of the best sources of protein, and egg yolks are an important source of vitamin D. Complete protein means that it contains essential amino acids necessary for human growth and development.
● Fatty fish
Fatty fish, such as salmon, mackerel, sardines, trout, and herring, are rich in omega-3. Omega-3 is a fatty acid, which is closely related to cognitive function and mental health.
● Yogurt
Yogurt contains healthful bacteria, Lactobacillus and Bifidobacteria. According to some studies, chronic inflammation may be part of the cause of anxiety, stress, and depression. At the same time, yogurt and other dairy products may have anti-inflammatory effects on the body.
In today’s fast-paced society, people often experience high levels of work-related stress and negative emotions. Incorporating fruits and vegetables that are rich in vitamin B6, tryptophan, and omega-3 into your diet may help stabilize your mood and promote positive emotions. By including these essential nutrients in our diets, we can better support our mental health and wellbeing.