Depression is a common mental ailment among people in today's highly stressful and uncertain times. Men and women consume more chocolate at times when their depression level is high. Researchers at the University of California, San Diego School of Medicine conducted a study and found that there could be a link between chocolate and depression. Although the short term results can make one feel good, the long term results could add unnecessary pounds. Luckily, there are alternatives to chocolate to combat depression.
Diet, Chocolate and Depression
Natalie Rose, M.D., of University of California, Davis, and University of California, San Diego, and colleagues examined the relationship between chocolate and mood among 931 women and men who were not using antidepressants. The process of the study required participants to report how much chocolate they consumed. Participants also completed a food questionnaire regarding their overall diet. Their moods were assessed using a validated depression scale. According to the results, those who screened positive for possible depression consumed an average of 8.4 servings of chocolate per month, compared with 5.4 servings per month among those not screening positive. Those whose scores were even higher, reflecting probable major depression, consumed even more chocolate—11.8 servings per month. The findings were similar between men and women.
Healthier Alternative for Treating Depression
Cathy Wong, ND, CNS, a licensed naturopathic doctor and an American College of Nutrition-certified nutrition specialist is the author of the book, The Inside Out Diet: 4 Weeks to Natural Weight Loss, Total Body Health, and Radiance( Wiley, 2007). She suggests five foods for a better mood.
- Oatmeal- It is rich in soluble fiber, which helps to smooth out blood sugar levels by slowing the absorption of sugar into the blood.
- Walnuts- Walnuts are an excellent source of omega-3 essential fatty acids, a type of fat that's needed for brain cells and mood-lifting neurotransmitters to function properly and possible help some people with depression.
- Tea- although caffeine has been shown to lead to a more positive mood and improved performance, it's a fine line.
- Salmon- Salmon is rich in Vitamin D. In the past few years, research has suggested that vitamin D may increase the levels of serotonin, one of the key neurotransmitters influencing our mood, and that it may help to relieve mood disorders.
- Lentils- Lentils are an excellent source of folate, a B vitamin that appears to be essential for mood and proper nerve function in the brain.
The important point to remember is for men and women to recognize their mood and confront depression with healthy choices in mind. Chocolate feels good in the meantime but will not sustain a person in the long run.
Candace Y.A. Montague - Candace Y.A. Montague is a lover of the arts; especially writing. She has been a "writer in training" for over 10 years and has published ...
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