The Effects of Sugar on Your Brain
November 15, 2022MoodNews Winter 2023
January 9, 2023In today’s world of modern medicine, it’s easy to think that we finally have a grasp on depression. But
in reality, there is still so much we do not yet understand. From what causes it to how to treat it,
relatively little progress has been made.
However, one thing becoming clearer every day is the strong link between what we eat and how we
feel. For example, we can more readily identify an immediate impact between an individual feeling
anxious after consuming 40 grams of sugar than we can a connection between anxiety and one’s
past trauma or genetics. But why is this?
Because no two foods are alike, many reasons support recent findings in the emerging field of
nutritional psychiatry. For instance, certain brain super-foods like almonds, walnuts, and peanuts
contain(s) PEA, an amino acid that treated depression and bipolar mania in controlled trials.
On the other hand, inflammatory foods such as refined sugar and processed meats help explain why
a poor diet is responsible for 1 in 3 cases of depression.
Why an Antidepressant Diet?
What we put into our bodies directly impacts our mood and overall well-being. If we consume
processed, sugary, and fatty foods, we are more likely to feel sluggish, anxious, and depressed.
On the other hand, if we eat plenty of fresh fruits, vegetables, lean protein, and healthy fats, we are
more likely to feel energized, happy, and mentally sharp. Therefore, it is important to be mindful of
what we eat, not only for our physical health but for our mental health as well.
The Antidepressant Diet is a practical, balanced, and science-based meal plan that accounts for
various key factors of nutrition and mental health to help one sustain a healthy weight and a better
overall mood. Let’s explore more about what the antidepressant diet is and what it is not.
It’s simple, not difficult.
Unlike other diets that focus primarily on limitations with food groups or calories, there is no calorie
counting with this Mediterranean-based diet. No foods are completely prohibited – there are many
you can enjoy in abundance, some to consider adding more of, and others a little less.
It’s sustainable, not painful or expensive.
The Antidepressant Diet contributes to more long-term weight loss than calorie counting because
people stick with it. Also contributing to its sustainability factor is it’s more affordable than the typical
Western diet.
It’s steady, not “all or nothing.”
One of the best parts about the antidepressant diet is that there aren’t any gimmicks involved. Like
there’s no calorie counting or food restrictions with this diet, there are no timelines or finish lines,
either, because that’s not how life works. In life, what you put into it is what you get out, so choose to
follow (the antidepressant diet) halfway, and you’ll still get half the benefits!
It’s effective…but why?
Striving for weight loss can often come with a price: your mental well-being. Counting calories and
restricting food intake may seem like the answer to successfully slimming down, but this method can
have many detrimental effects on your overall health.
When dieting is pursued in an unhealthy way, restrictions can lead to triggering and perpetuating a
cycle of stress; this stress itself can lead to depression which contributes to weight gain. It’s important
to take a different approach when looking for sustainable weight loss.
There are healthier and easier methods than calorie counting – like following a non-restrictive,
antidepressant diet that doesn’t rely on harsh caloric restrictions. This way, you may be able to not
only shed pounds but also reduce stress while increasing your happiness!
Change Your Life and Change Your Mood in 2023
If you’re ready to learn more about the antidepressant diet and how to embrace it this year, contact us
at Mood Treatment Center for support. We specialize in a wide range of natural lifestyle and
therapeutic approaches to help you create sustainable changes you can enjoy making