Teen depression is a serious problem but there are a number of experts who strongly advocate a different theory for treating this problem. They firmly believe that appropriate changes in the eating habits can help in curing this problem. According to them, if the affected teens shift to certain healthy diets, they can certainly combat this problem and come out unscathed. Let us have a look.
It is true that children who are affected by teen depression may not desire to eat. Some of them may not care what they eat also. Since they may not have proper appetite, they neglect eating and this may have an adverse effect on their health. It is up to the parents of the affected teens to impress upon these teens and motivate them to eat these foods.
Food That Can Help Children Affected By Teen Depression
Experts opine that brightly colored foods can bestow the best benefits to teens affected by depression. One of the easy clues is to look for dark and rich items, especially fruits and vegetables, because they contain a lot of nutrients.
Blueberries
It has been proved that blueberries contain antioxidants and so, if teens consume them, they can fight the free radicals that enter their system. Free radicals can cause great harm to the physical and mental health of people. Further, blueberries contain flavonoids also and so, they can help in improving blood circulation as well as the activities of the brain. Flavonoids are a combination of Vitamin P and Citrin. Both the nutrients can help teens with depression. Like Blueberries, blackberries, strawberries and raspberries may also help equally.
Cherries
Cherries are good for inflammation problem and can help in solving aches associated with teen depression.
Raisins, Dried Fruits
Raisins and dried fruits have a lot of nutritional value. Especially, prunes contain a good amount of Riboflavonoid. Dried berries and apricots can easily be stored so that teens can be served without any difficulties. But, teens should drink plenty of liquids so as to avoid dehydration.
Tomatoes, Carrots and Leafy Vegetables
They contain a lot of vitamins and especially, green leafy vegetables contain Vitamin B6, Vitamin B12 and Folate that can help in fighting depression.
Foods That Contain Omega-3 Fatty Acids
Salmon fish can supply Omega-3 fatty acids that may do a world of good to the health of the children who have been affected by teen depression. In fact, it has been found that if people do not get adequate Omega-3 fatty acids, there may be a slowdown in their brain activities. Flaxseed, Hummus, Tuna fish, Chia seeds, etc. also contain Omega-3 fatty acids.
Turkey
Since Turkey contains proteins, carbohydrates and Tryptophan, it can help teens to beat their depression. Turkey can help in the production of Serotonin, that is otherwise known as the feel-good hormone.
Wholesome Grains
Wholesome grains can supply carbohydrates that are needed for directing Tryptophan to the brain. They supply B Vitamins also. These nutrients are natural and very good anti-depressants.
Dark chocolate
Researchers have proved that dark chocolate with 60 percent cacao percentage can be effective in lifting the mood of children who are affected by teen depression. Dark chocolate contains phenylethylamine that can increase the endorphin levels in the human system. This can help the children in fighting their teen depression.
Apart from these, Walnuts, olive oil, canola oil, marmalade, soya, brown rice, fresh juice, low-fat cheese, etc. can also be very good foods that can help children fight teen depression.