5 Superfoods BLOW Away the Winter Blues

By Dr. Scott Olson, ND Posted December 8, 2023

With the change of seasons and all the holiday cheer surrounding us, the winter blues can sometimes, unexpectedly, come roaring in.

If that sounds familiar, you should know you’re NOT alone.

Up to 20 percent of folks are in the same boat.

It’s easy to let everything slip when you’re feeling this way. But the truth is eating a healthy, well-balanced diet can help fight off the blues.

In fact, adding some mental-health-supporting “superfoods” to your diet TODAY could give you the boost needed to get you OVER this hump and INTO the holiday spirit.

I get it. When battling the blues, your appetite often goes on the fritz. Food is either the last thing on your mind or the ONLY thing you can think about.

But what you eat can significantly impact your mood, energy, and mental health.

Following are FIVE foods that pack a potent blues-busting punch.

Add more of them to your menu over the next couple of weeks, and TRULY have a happy holiday:

• Salmon is rich in the omega-3 fatty acids EPA and DHA, which can reduce depression-linked brain inflammation. Enjoy salmon baked or grilled. I like to add mine to a delicious salad.
• Turmeric contains the potent compound curcumin, which boosts serotonin and dopamine, critical neurotransmitters for a positive mood. Sprinkle the spice into soups, smoothies, roasted veggies, and curries.
• Dark chocolate contains compounds that trigger a mood-lifting dopamine release to drive away the blues. Look for a chocolate containing at least 70% cocoa and enjoy it in moderation… a small square or two after meals.
• Walnuts are rich in plant-based omega-3 ALA, which can boost the low serotonin levels often linked to depression. Enjoy a small handful for a crunchy, satisfying snack.
• Green tea contains the potent amino acid L-theanine. L-theanine promotes the alpha brain waves associated with calm and relaxation. Sip a cup (or several) daily.
• Mushrooms are naturally high in the amino acid tryptophan (a precursor to serotonin). Plus, they’re rich in vitamin D, which can reduce feelings of anxiety and depression.

Diet isn’t a cure for the winter blues, of course. But it CAN help.

Incorporating more of these mood-boosting superfoods into your day can set the stage for feeling more upbeat and optimistic.

But remember, if you’re experiencing depression, always take it seriously. Seek professional advice if you need it.

P.S. BRIGHT idea drives down depression. Give it a try, starting TODAY!

Source:

Durrani D, et. al. “Vitamin B6: A new approach to lowering anxiety, and depression?,” Ann Med Surg (Lond). 2022 Sep 15;82:104663. doi: 10.1016 /j.amsu.2022.104663. PMID: 36268413; PMCID: PMC9577631.

Written By Dr. Scott Olson, ND

Nearly 25 years ago, failed mainstream medical treatments left Dr. Olson in constant pain – and his health in ruins. And that’s when he did something REVOLUTIONARY. He began his career in medicine – and dedicated his life to uncovering the true, underlying causes of disease.
Through his innovative medical practices in Tennessee and Colorado, Dr. Olson has helped cure countless seniors from across America of arthritis… heart disease… diabetes… and even cancer. All without risky prescription drugs or painful surgeries.

View More By Dr. Scott Olson, ND