Does Your Diet Contribute to Depression?

Psychological and emotional problems may not be the primary cause for depression. There is some evidence that certain types of foods may contribute to episodes of depression. Foods that are low in cholesterol, low in sugar and low in fat, but that contain high levels of protein may cause a person to feel depressed. The combination of low sugar, fat and cholesterol with high protein content may interfere with the brain's production of the neurotransmitter serotonin. Serotonin levels determine the relative happiness or satisfaction a person experiences. Low levels of serotonin causes a person to feel sad or depressed. Carbohydrates are necessary for the production of serotonin. Certain foods directly affect serotonin levels.

Foods that lower the serotonin level of the human body are apples, Brazil nuts, peanuts, walnuts, avocados, horse meat, eggs, salmon and canned green beans. Milk and dairy products also suppress serotonin production. Foods that are low in carbohydrates also suppress serotonin levels. People who eat a low carb diet experience more frequent and longer lasting bouts of depression than people who eat a high carbohydrate diet. Low carbohydrate foods that may contribute to lower serotonin levels in the brain include mushrooms, eggplants, raspberries and cranberries. Tryptophan is an essential element of adequate serotonin production. A lack of tryptophan in the diet can lead to depression due to low levels of serotonin. Tryptophan is found in meat protein, such as fish, turkey, chicken and lean red meat.

Alcoholic beverages may trigger depression. In addition to damaging the liver, the stomach and increasing blood pressure, alcohol has an overall negative impact on the brain. A person who is experiencing a depressive episode should refrain from consuming alcohol. If you drink too much coffee and other caffeinated drinks, this may lead to anxiety, nervousness, insomnia and depression. Processed foods are high in sodium, which can interfere with the production of important brain chemicals like serotonin. Fast food and processed dried foods like pasta and white bread also contribute to depression by interfering with serotonin and other neurotransmitters.

Low selenium has been linked to depression and foods that are rich in selenium can help improve depression. Some studies have suggested that taking selenium supplements for up to 8 weeks may help improve mild and moderate depression, especially in the elderly. However, increasing selenium by eating foods rich in the nutrient is preferable to taking a supplement. Foods that contain selenium include beans and legumes, lean beef and pork, chicken and turkey.