With the arrival of autumn and the gloomy cold weather, we see less and less of the day, which of course affects the mental and physical health of many of us as well. Due to the worse weather, we are forced to stay more at home. That’s why we may unfortunately be more prone to depression in the fall and winter months. The lucky ones don’t have to commute to their workplace every day, but those whose jobs require a daily presence also have to deal with the increased stress of traveling. In this article, we’ve put together 5 superfoods for you that can help you overcome the depression you might develop after the summer is over:
- Cacao
Even South American natives used cacao as an aphrodisiac, and the fruit of the cocoa tree was also used for other healings. And in the age of the Spanish conquests, thanks to the enthusiastic cultivation of the Mayans, this plant was already extremely widespread in Mexico. Cacao, as a superfood, has a rather invigorating effect, stimulates brain function and also produces serotonin and dopamine, which can help maintain our well-being. And in addition to its excellent health effects, it can be made into a really tasty hot drink that warms both our souls and bodies on colder days.
- Avocado
Like cacao, avocado comes from South America. Moreover, it became known in the same way in the 16th century. However, as a superfood, it gained world fame much later. Avocados are also extremely rich in vitamins and unsaturated fatty acids that can contribute to a healthy immune system. Due to its vitamin E content, it is quite effective in moisturizing and firming the skin. Avocado is also rich in vitamin B, which contributes to our body’s production of melatonin, so it can also be considered a natural sedative. Its calorie content is high, but it is more rich in unsaturated fatty acids, so we can safely use it as a healthier equivalent of margarine for our breakfast.
- Ashwagandha
Ashwagandha is one of the most valuable herbs considered a superfood. It has been used against thousands of diseases in India for thousands of years. It can be an effective cure for lowering blood sugar and cholesterol levels, treating various inflammations and infections, and strengthening the immune system. Its effects are known and recognized not only in folk medicine but also in traditional medicine. It also stimulates brain function and helps to overcome the symptoms of depression and anxiety. In several Asian countries, it is believed to be an effective herb against all known diseases, which either completely cures patients or greatly alleviates the symptoms of the diseases.
- Matcha tea
The health benefits of green tea have long been widely known. It is well known for its high antioxidant as well as L-theanine content. Depression is a chemical imbalance in the brain that can be perfectly compensated for by green tea. Matcha tea, a variant of green tea - most consumed in Japan - consists of extremely finely ground, high quality green tea leaves. It has long been available in cafes, drugstores and organic shops in Hungary. Due to its high caffeine content, it can be a perfect coffee substitute. However, the absorption of caffeine in matcha tea is more of a prolonged, more gradual process, in contrast to the caffeine in coffee.
- Blueberries
We can’t go wrong with berries, but blueberries can also be extremely effective in protecting you from unnecessary mood swings. Blueberries native to North America are rich in vitamin C, antioxidants and other flavonoids. This is why it can have a beneficial effect on our physical and mental condition. It is best eaten raw, but in the autumn months we can also eat the frozen version. Its high antioxidant content can help fight our various diseases, as well as it can effectively bind the free radicals released in the body. In addition to being very healthy, it can be a real evocative treat in the colder seasons.
