The Role of Good Nutrition in Teen Depression
Approximately 20 % of all teens are clinically depressed, and the rate continues to grow annually. If you are the parent of one living in the Orlando area, then they must see a counselor in Orlando. Another thing that you can do to help your child is to make sure that they are eating a healthy diet. There is a lot of evidence to show that teens who eat a junk food diet are more likely to be depressed. Teens who eat a healthy diet are about 25 % less likely to experience depression.
Important Nutrients
There are many essential nutrients that your teen can get when they eat right that will help them feel better. Eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) found in Omega 3 fatty acids can help boost moods. Eating foods that are high in Omega 3, like walnuts, soybeans, and sardines can help your child’s body get the amount that they need. Additionally, teens suffering from a lack of Vitamin D in their diet often suffer from depression. Foods high in Vitamin D include most dairy products along with eggs and salmon. Another nutrient that teens often lack that may lead to depression is Vitamin B. Great sources include mushrooms, spinach, and pineapple.
Gardening
Fresh fruits and vegetables are the best sources of nutrients needed in teen diets. Therefore, you may want to help your teen grow a garden. Research shows that gardening also helps improve teens’ mood because bacteria found in the soil helps promote healthy brain function. Depressed teens also benefit from the exercise required to garden along with time spent in nature. There is also a sense of pride when teens see the food that they have grown.
Creative Cooking
Teens who prepare food also suffer from less depression as long as they are using their creative skills to make the meal. There are many ways that teens can get creative in the kitchen. You can help boost your teen’s creativity in the kitchen by assisting them to be mindful. Talk with them about the different sensations that they are feeling while preparing a meal. Once teens prepare a feast for the family, make sure to be appreciative because then depressed teens experience a helper’s high, which can lift depression. There is also a powerful built-in reward system when teens eat the food that they have grown and prepared.
Psychologists are just starting to understand the role between food and depression. The answer for depressed teens probably does not lie in a better diet alone. That is why your teen must see a counselor in Orlando about how they are feeling. Contact High Expectations to get the process started today. Your teen deserves you being proactive in helping them overcome depression
