How to Eat your Way Out of Postmenopausal Depression

Unfortunately for some women being classified as postmenopause doesn't mean the end of the symptoms they'd previously been plagued with. Read on to find out why.

Postmenopause refers to the years after menopause, (technically menopause is defined as the year after you have been period-free for 12 months). Unfortunately this definition promises no sudden balance of estrogen, progesterone, and testosterone, which is the main reason for the unpleasant symptoms you may experience, such as depression.

Luckily though, the most severe of your symptoms should be behind you. You are probably well aware that the food you put in your body has a direct effect on how you feel. So, before reaching for unhealthy comfort foods, consider the following options as they can help you eliminate postmenopausal depression in the long run.

5 Foods to Stamp out Depression

If you are experiencing severe depression or menopause symptoms, you may need to visit your doctor so that they can assess your hormonal levels and personalize a diet plan for you or prescribe medication. For many women though, there are certain foods which can help improve overall health and ease menopause symptoms such as depression. These include:

Soy

Containing phytoestrogens, a chemical in plants that acts like estrogen in the body, soy can boost low estrogen levels. It is also a healthy source of protein.

Apples

Make sure to incorporate plenty of foods full of fiber, like apples, to help keep your digestive system regular.

Salmon

Salmon is recommended for helping to relieve a multitude of postmenopausal symptoms. Its benefits are most likely the result of its high content of omega-3 fatty acids, nutrients which are known to promote brain health.

Oysters

Full of zinc, oysters are perfect for relieving skin irritation and are also known for promoting sexual virility.

Beans, Beans

Not only are beans good for the heart, they are also full of folic acid that is known to elevate mood.

More Information about Postmenopausal Depression

If you have suffered from depression before, during, or after menopause your feelings may be unrelated to menopause. In this case it is wise to ask your doctor about what else may be causing your depression or consider alternative treatments like acupuncture. Alternatively you may need to talk to someone about your feelings like a friend or counselor. Follow this link to read more about menopausal depression.