Obesity and Underweight Condition May Up Depression; These Dietary Changes Will Help Overcome Mood Disorders

Women are extremely underweight or obese are likely to be at an increased risk of developing common mood disorders that may include depression and anxiety, as a result of low feel good neuroactive steroid. According to a study published in the Journal Neuropsychopharmacology, Neurosteroid 'Allopregnanolone' also known as allo is a metabolite of the hormone progesterone- a female hormone. Allo works by producing a positive mood and feelings of well-being.

The findings in the study showed that in women with anorexia nervosa, blood levels of allo were 50 percent lower than they were in women with normal body mass index. Women who were clinically obese had allo levels approximately 60 percent lower than women with normal weights. Moreover, participants with lower levels of allo had greater severity of depression symptoms.

Mood disorders including depression, anxiety and stress can take a toll on your body. Some dietary tweaks can help you deal with these conditions. Here are some foods that you should include in your diet to curb these symptoms.

1. Complex carbs

You should add more complex carbs to your diet, which may include whole grains, brown rice and vegetables. These foods help fight depression. A lot of studies have shown that low carb diets have been linked to nervousness, anxiety, decreased concentration and insomnia.

2. Vitamin D

Vitamin D is produced by the skin with the help of sun's rays. Many reports have shown that most people with depression have low level of vitamin D. Depression is also a play of hormones and vitamins are associated with the production or regulation of certain hormones. There are foods that are rich in vitamin D, which may include egg, cheese, mushrooms and milk.

3. Drink more water and fluids

Inlcude more fluids like buttermilk, green tea, milk and lemon water. Fluids tend to have a soothing effect on your brain, especially milk and water.

4. Vitamin B complex and fats

Fats are responsible to keep a person happy and going. They have a feel-good property. But make sure you choose the right kind of fats. Even foods rich in Vitamin B can really help. They turn our food into fuel and keep us energized through the day.

With inputs from IANS