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Antidepressant Foods

Many nutritional items seem to relieve feelings of depression for some people. The research in this field is very preliminary but shows promise. Do not stop taking prescription antidepressants and rely on the foods in this article, but experiment with one or two of these suggestions to see if they help you.

  1. Omega-3 Fatty Acids

    • Pumpkin flesh and pumpkin seed are high in omega-3 fatty acids.

      The most widespread nutritional deficiency in the United States is omega-3 fatty acids, according to "The World's Healthiest Foods." Omega-3 makes up a significant portion of the lipids, or fats, in the brain tied to problems including depression. Foods rich in omega-3 include pumpkins and pumpkin seed oil; wild-caught, cold-water fish such as salmon, sardines, tuna and halibut; flaxseed oil; and nuts, especially walnuts.

    Tryptophan

    • Shrimp has a high tryptophan content.

      Tryptophan is a precursor (chemical that transforms into) serotonin. Serotonin helps your body regulate your mood. Tryptophan raises the body's serotonin level and is used in depression treatment. You can increase your tryptophan intake by eating the following: seafood such as shrimp and scallops; soy in the form of tofu, a plant-based protein that is packed with amino acids, contains unsaturated fat and is cholesterol-free; greens that are also high in folate including spinach, broccoli, Swiss chard and kale; dairy products such as low-fat cheese and cow's milk; eggs; and meats including turkey, lamb, chicken and calf's liver.

    Sugars

    • Sugar beets are delicious pickled or cooked in a cream sauce.

      Molasses contains iron, vitamin B, calcium and phosphorous. Molasses and sugar beets are high in uridine, which may fight depression. Use these sugars in moderation to protect your teeth and maintain a healthy weight and blood-sugar level.

    Caffeine

    • Coffee is highly caffeinated.

      Caffeine may be effective when used as an antidepressant, according to studies at Middle Tennessee State University. Use caffeine in moderation -- one to two cups per day. This mood lifter has the added benefit of delivering the same effect each day without increasing the dosage. Caffeine is mainly effective for patients with mild depression. Sources are coffee, black tea, cocoa and chocolate.

    Folic Acid

    • One glass of orange juice is a great source of vitamin C and folic acid.

      Folic acid can be an important nutritional supplement in countering depression. A deficiney has been linked to depression in clinical studies, as it seems to decrease the level of serotonin in the brain. You can get the right daily dosage of folic acid with one 8-oz glass of orange juice or one cup of cooked spinach.

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