Foods That Can Trigger Depression Symptoms

Refined Sugar

Americans love sugar, as studies show the average American consumes a whopping 164 pounds of sugar per year. Although a little treat once in a while might make individuals feel good temporarily, they should be cautious when eating these scrumptious treats! Foods high in refined sugar, such as candy, sweets, cookies, doughnuts, and juice, have a damaging effect on blood sugar because they are highly processed and contain no fiber. They send a rush of sugar to the bloodstream that causes insulin levels to skyrocket. Blood sugar levels drop a short time later as these foods contain no nutritional value, which often causes irritability, depression, and anxiety. Sugar affects the brain in three distinct ways: it creates inflammation, derails hormones, and starves the brain and damages important structures in the body, such as cell membranes and blood vessels. Many of these treats, such as doughnuts, contain unhealthy fats, little to no fiber, and are loaded with added and artificial sugars. Instead, individuals should opt for the natural sweetness of berries, which have been shown to have a protective effect on blood sugar levels when eaten with high glycemic foods, such as white bread.

Margarine

In the case of margarine versus butter, the real stuff is always a better option. Margarine and other butter alternatives are often made with highly inflammatory ingredients including omega-6 fatty acids, which inhibit natural mood enhancers such as omega-3 fatty acids. Grass-fed butter contains higher amounts of omega-3 fatty acids, which are needed to boost brain health. Ghee and coconut oil are also good choices for replacing margarine because they contain 'good' monounsaturated fats.