Fueling our bodies with healthy food can provide immense health benefits—not just to our bodies, but also to our brains! Considering that 95% of our body’s serotonin is produced in our gastrointestinal tracts, it makes sense that what we put into our body impacts our brain’s ability to perform. And, while proper nutrition is important during every season, fall is an especially tasty time to indulge in “brain food.”
Here are some fresh healthy foods for this fall, as well as a description of the health benefits you’ll reap from eating them:
1. Acorn squash. Acorn squash is a winter squash with a wonderfully light and sweet taste. In general, all kinds of squash offer health benefits, but acorn squash is especially nutrient-dense. Not only is acorn squash rich in antioxidants, but it also contains magnesium, which is important in reducing the severity of depression and anxiety.
2. Apples. Recent studies have connected the phytochemical profile of apples with such benefits as the prevention of DNA damage, the regulation of hormones, and a reduction in oxidative damage. There are bonus benefits if you pick your own apples, meaning you’ll reap the depression-fighting benefits of being active, and soaking up that fall sun!
3. Pumpkin. Nothing says “fall” quite like a pumpkin. From lattes to pies, pumpkin is popping up everywhere…and hopefully on your dinner menu, as well. Pumpkin contains lutein and zeaxanthin, which can help with memory recall in aging adults. Furthermore, pumpkin is rich in tryptophan, which helps the brain produce serotonin. So, have another slice of that pumpkin pie and kiss the seasonal blues goodbye!
4. Turmeric. A little sprinkle of this mood-boosting spice goes a long way. Tea with turmeric is one of the best drinks to hydrate, especially when you consider the antioxidant and anti-inflammatory benefits of this healthy food. Turmeric can be easily incorporated into your day-to-day diet, and is a delicious way to combat depression naturally.
5. Cinnamon. Simply delicious, this spice is especially popular during the autumn months. But did you know that cinnamon can help regulate blood sugar, which contributes to mood stability? Add it to coffee or tea and enjoy one of the best drinks to hydrate with, or as an added fall flavor in bread, oatmeal, baked fruits, and even in a warm bowl of turkey chili!
Eating healthy food to reap the health benefits of a well-fueled body and mind is important, but for many people suffering from depression or seasonal affective disorder, a healthy diet simply isn’t enough to shake the sadness. For those who find their depression is detracting from their quality of life, a more aggressive treatment approach may be necessary. If antidepressants and talk therapy have proven inadequate, we urge you to learn more about ketamine for depression. Ketamine is effective for up to 70% of patients, even those who have tried everything else to no avail.
Contact Ketamine Greater Boston
Ketamine Greater Boston is a leading ketamine clinic in the greater Boston area. Since 2015, we have administered thousands of infusions. We rely on a proven ketamine infusion protocol that works effectively and quickly to alleviate symptoms. Contact us using the brief form below to request a free consultation with Dr. Bruce Kaster at Ketamine Greater Boston.
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