Q Are there any foods that are good for depression? Conversely, I am also curious about foods to avoid.
A Omega-3 (blue-backed fish), tryptophan (eggs, beans, nuts), and Vitamin D (sunlight, salmon) help with serotonin synthesis. It is best to avoid alcohol, excessive sugar, and caffeine, as they worsen mood swings.
Detailed Answer
Helpful foods: Foods rich in Omega-3 (salmon, mackerel, walnuts) reduce brain inflammation and improve neurotransmitter function. Foods rich in tryptophan (eggs, tofu, bananas, nuts) provide serotonin precursors. Vitamin D (sunlight exposure, salmon, mushrooms) is involved in serotonin synthesis. Things to avoid: Alcohol (a central depressant that lowers mood), refined sugar and processed foods (mood instability due to rapid blood sugar fluctuations), and excessive caffeine (disrupts sleep).
Korean Medicine Clinic Perspective
When spleen and stomach function weakens, the production of Qi and blood decreases, exacerbating depression. The dietary principle of Korean medicine is to nourish the spleen and stomach through warm, regular meals and easily digestible foods. Among herbal prescriptions designed to nourish both the mind and the spleen and stomach, a diet that places a low burden on digestion is recommended.
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