Foods That Say "Bye Bye" to Winter Depression

"It's the season of winter, you know, you can't find even a sip of sunshine…" — we thought we'd open with a line from that song. And truly, lately our eyes and our skin have been searching for just a sip of sunshine.

The cold weather has practically imprisoned us all inside layers of thick clothing, and rainy days naturally take a toll on our moods. Experts are drawing attention to the effect that overcast skies in autumn and winter have on human psychology — otherwise known as winter depression. Have you ever heard the term "Seasonal Affective Disorder"? It's a type of depression that appears during a specific time of year. It turns out we're especially prone to it in the fall and winter months. We wanted to take a closer look at what this depression is all about. And the most exciting news? We may be able to say "bye bye" to it through food!

However, if your mood goes beyond temporary winter depression, it's definitely worth consulting a doctor.

How Do We Recognize Winter Depression?

If 3–5 of the items below apply to you, there's a good chance you've been hit by winter depression. But don't be scared — keep reading, because the remedy is in this article too…

• Not wanting to get out of bed in the morning
• Persistent fatigue throughout the day
• Difficulty concentrating
• Lack of energy
• Irritability
• Pessimism
• Restlessness
• Forgetfulness
• Persistent unhappiness
• Decreased libido

Depression-Busting Foods

*It comes from the sea and chases depression away :) Fish

With its abundant omega-3 content, fish helps us relax and unwind. It's great for our overall health and also adds a glow to our skin. The essential fatty acids found in fish have been proven to help overcome depression.

Cold-water fish in particular — such as salmon, tuna, and mackerel — are rich in omega-3 fatty acids, which support the development of the central nervous system. Other omega-3-rich foods include pumpkin seeds, walnuts, flaxseeds, and purslane.

As the Tarifi Kolay family, we've declared war on depression!
From our omega-3 powerhouses; our Baked Salmon and Purslane Dish recipes — what depression? Ha!

*Emotional Balance: Vitamin B

Vitamin B is a water-soluble vitamin. Vitamin B6 in particular is said to help keep emotions balanced and ease depression.

Foods rich in B6: Bananas, potatoes, whole grains, chicken, steak, trout, peanut butter, spinach, bran bread, brown rice, sunflower seeds.

Tarifi Kolay Family's B6-Rich Recipes:

Baked Chicken with Potatoes, Butter-Pan Trout, Steak with Tomato Paste Sauce, or Lamb and Spinach Stew

Strawberry: The Enemy of Depression

We can almost hear everyone saying "where am I going to find strawberries in winter?" You can find them frozen, or you can consume foods that contain strawberries — both help in treating depression. Strawberries are one of the fruits with the highest serotonin content. In this cold weather, they both boost the immune system and lift your spirits.



Time to Eat Some Bananas…

Thanks to their scent and their high endorphin content, bananas are practically a happiness warehouse. Whenever you feel sad or hopeless, or find yourself craving something sweet, reach for a banana.

The King of Magnesium: Leeks

Eat plenty of leeks this winter. High in magnesium, leeks are good for fatigue, restlessness, and absentmindedness. They also support the efficient functioning of the central nervous system.

Head to the kitchen and make some Olive Oil Braised Leeks.

Can Winter Go By Without Herbal Tea?

Choose herbal teas over black tea or caffeine. They relax and soothe the body — and they're healing too…

Chamomile Tea: It has been used for not hundreds, but thousands of years in the treatment of depression, anxiety, and insomnia. Its calming effect brings a sense of ease and helps you fall asleep quickly.

Lemon Balm Tea: Used to reduce stress and anxiety, and to regulate sleep patterns.

St. John's Wort: The most healing herb used in the treatment of mild depression. St. John's Wort ranks first among plants recommended for depression throughout Europe.

Linden Tea: Reduces stress and promotes relaxation. Eases anxiety.

Mint Tea: Rich in omega-3 fatty acids. Promotes a sense of calm.



Our Natural Antidepressant Dessert: Aşure

Once again, the best help comes from our own heritage, friends! Aşure (Noah's Pudding), one of the most celebrated dishes of Turkish cuisine worldwide, is extremely rich in dried legumes. Our nourishing, delicious Aşure (Noah's Pudding) recipe is a great remedy for winter depression.

Wishing you healing days…