Depression is a major problem in our world today. No one is immune from the day-to-day stresses that occur in our lives.  Stresses can be anything from someone cutting us off in traffic to work-related stresses, to the loss of a close friend or relative.

Being a health counselor and nutritionist, I understand that most people these days need some help once in a while with boosting our mood, reducing or handling stress more effectively, or overcoming depression.There are a number of foods and supplements that can help reduce the effects of stress on our health, help us to sleep better, and fight depression.

A basic first step is to eat a well-balanced diet of organic fresh fruits and vegetables. I recommend always buying organic, non-GMO foods when possible because they will have a much higher nutrient content,  less synthetic estrogen, and less chemical toxins for your body.  Consuming a more plant-based diet is recommended.

Some of these plant-based foods are yellow, orange, red, green, and purple fruits and vegetables.  Some specific foods for fighting depression are: papayas, beets, apples, red bell peppers, sprouted lentils, sprouted legumes, sprouted chickpeas, sprouted beans,  sprouted quinoa, leafy greens (romaine lettuce, spinach, turnip greens, mustard greens, parsley, collard greens, basil, and arugula,) broccoli, cauliflower, sunflower seeds, celery, and mushrooms.

Maca root is a wonderful superfood that originated in the Andes. The raw powder of the maca root helps the body cope with stress. It contains more than 55 beneficial phytochemical nutrients that help our bodies regulate hormones, relieve the symptoms of depression, reduce stress, elevate mood, and increase stamina. Maca root has been found to fortify weak immune systems and aid in re-mineralizing the body.

Hormones can play a part in how we feel. Depression, anxiety, insomnia, low libido are all signs that hormones may be imbalanced. A beverage that helps balance hormones is Tulsi tea. Tulsi tea  (It is also known as Holy basil), is a member of the mint family and a sacred plant in India. has been shown to help regulate hormones, relieve stress, as well as other health benefits.

Vitamins are important to our mental well-being. Make sure you are not low in Vitamin D. Vitamin D is prohormone and helps prevent inflammation. A deficiency of vitamin D can cause depression and has also been linked to cancer, diabetes, high blood pressure, and some autoimmune diseases.

In conclusion, mood can be boosted tremendously by consuming healthy foods and supplements that fight depression and avoiding ingredients that can cause depression and anxiety. By eating a nutritious diet, a person can not only lift their mood but also live a happier, healthier life. 

Nancy Addison is a certified health counselor, nutritionist, chef, as well as a certified practitioner of Psychosomatic Therapy. She teaches people about living a healthier, happier life through nutrition and lifestyle. She has appeared on NBC, Fox, CBS, and in documentaries (one example- “Eating You Alive”). You can reach her on her website, Organic Healthy Life, Nancy Addison’s 6 international award-winning books can be seen on her author page on Amazon.

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The information from Nancy Addison and Organic Healthy Lifestyle LLC is not offered for the diagnosis, cure, mitigation, treatment, or prevention of any disease or disorder nor have any statements herein been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). We strongly encourage you to discuss topics of concern with your health care provider.