When it comes to mental health conditions like depression, we tend to overlook the impact of food. A lot of this ignorance stems from the tendency to look at food from the lens of fattening and non-fattening meals. However, it is time to ditch that lens and look at it from the perspective of overall health. This article lists four foods that have a positive impact on mental health.

1. Green vegetables
Vegetables have always held a priced position in daily meals. They help the body obtain the right amount of macro and micronutrients essential for growth and development. However, that is the physical part. Did you know that veggies also play an important role in mental wellbeing? Vitamin B from green leafy vegetables enhances the body’s dopamine and serotonin production. So, green vegetables are mood-altering food capable of dealing with depression.

2. Fatty fish
Fatty fish is a superfood. The good quality fat, the protein, the low to moderate amount of carbs make it an ideal option for a healthy meal. They help combat cardiac conditions, diabetes, cancer, and arthritis. Moreover, they also help prevent mental health conditions like Parkinson’s, depression, and Alzheimer’s. It has been scientifically proven that omega-3 fatty acids play a crucial part in the production of dopamine and serotonin.

3. Sweet potatoes
Sweet potatoes might not be the tastiest of foods. However, it is good for your mood and can help in controlling rapid mood swings. Sweet potatoes contain high levels of carotenoids, a type of antioxidant. Studies suggest people with depression tend to have a low amount of carotenoid in their bodies. Sweet potatoes are replete with carotenoids, making them a depression-fighting food.

4. Dark chocolate
Chocolate has a bad rep as it is thought of as an indulgence. This has ultimately led to a bad name for cocoa altogether. But, dark chocolate is more than just an indulgence. Dark chocolate is replete with antioxidants combined with its mood-enhancing abilities. The high flavonoid levels in this plant-based food are scientifically proven to help with depression. Along with that, it is also beneficial for other mental health concerns like stress and anxiety. So, dark chocolate should be a daily part of your meals, but within limits.

Add these three foods to your food regime. However, ensure that you consult your doctor before making any changes to your dietary lifestyle.