3 foods for depression management

Depression is a growing concern among health care workers as well as the populace. The fact that the condition is not restricted to a demographic makes it even more difficult to deal with. Being mindful about the food being consumed or daily habits have proven to be beneficial for depression and other mental health conditions. Here are three foods that work tirelessly towards better management of depression and its symptoms.

Sweet potato
Sweet potatoes are a staple of many festive meals. But research shows that they may just be the perfect food for all seasons. Sweet potatoes are rich in many nutrients such as vitamin A, beta-carotene, and fiber. They are also rich sources of magnesium, which is known to reduce the levels of stress and anxiety in the body. Lower levels of magnesium have been linked to depression and insomnia. The complex carbohydrates present in sweet potatoes are also known to improve one’s mood, making it an ideal food source to manage depression symptoms.

Dark chocolate
Chocolates are considered unhealthy in most cases, but if it is the dark and unsweetened kind, it has several health benefits, especially for people with a mental health condition. The large quantities of antioxidants found in a bar of dark chocolate not only help manage stress but also lends a helping hand in managing anxiety and depression. A small bite of dark cocoa can also go a long way in improving one’s mood, managing depression, and its symptoms.

Green vegetables
Green vegetables make up for nutrient deficiencies. They also help one meet their fiber needs and lower inflammation in the body. The folate content of these vegetables is responsible for enhanced dopamine and serotonin production, helping manage symptoms of depression better.

However, there are times when a multidisciplinary treatment approach is required. In such cases, health care professionals can choose to prescribe some medications to their patients. Some of the common medicines used in such cases include Latuda and Caplyta for depression treatment.

Latuda
Latuda contains lurasidone that is used to address various mood and mental health conditions. It has been used in the treatment of schizophrenia and depression associated with bipolar disorder. It is an oral medication, and the dosage may differ from patient to patient. Latuda depression treatment works by restoring the balance of certain components in the brain.

Caplyta
Lumateperon or Caplyta depression treatment is prescribed for patients with severe depression that is often associated with bipolar disorder. It is said to be effective in clearing out thoughts and better managing nervousness, improving the patient’s quality of life. Like Latuda, Caplyta is also an oral medication.

REXULTI (brexpiprazole)
REXULTI (brexpiprazole) is a prescription tablet that helps reduce the symptoms of depression. According to research, it reduces the symptoms by about 62% when used with an antidepressant. This percentage is much lower when antidepressants are administered without REXULTI. However, it is always better to speak with a doctor before taking any such combination. Its side effects include seizures, metabolism problems, and uncontrolled body movements.

If you are someone who is hesitant about reaching out and asking for help in person, there are numerous therapists that offer online support. Services like 7 Cups, Doctor on Demand, and iPrevail help people achieve mental and emotional peace. The increasing popularity of therapy online has helped the larger masses deal with issues like anxiety, depression, and isolation. Offices these days also cover online therapies through Employee Assistance Programmes.

Velbenazine or Ingrezza® is used to treat psychological disorders like depression caused due to underlying conditions like tardive dyskinesia. Ingrezza® treats depression by reducing the extra dopamine signaling. It is an FDA-approved treatment that comes in the form of capsules, and it is usually prescribed to be taken once daily. Prescription-based Ingrezza® capsules of 80mg can be taken any time of the day, with or without food.