How to eat your way out of postmenopausal depression

So, you thought the minute the doctor slapped the title "postmenopausal" on your chart you'd be on to a happily ever after, symptom free existence, did you? Sorry, by this age you ought to know that nothing is as easy as it seems.

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

Luckily, the most severe of your symptoms should be behind you, and by now, it should be common knowledge that the food you put in your body has a direct effect on how you feel. Before you run off to the burger joint to scarf a plate of cheese fries that will make you feel "better" for one minute, consider the following foods to help eliminate postmenopausal depression in the long run.

Five foods to stamp out depression

Actually, for a diet to be most effective at reducing symptoms of hormonal imbalance, you should ask you doctor to test your levels to find out what kind of imbalance you have. Also, your depression could be a result of a combination of other symptoms.

Soy.

Choc full of phytoestrogens, or a chemical in plants that acts like estrogen in the body, soy can boost your lacking estrogen levels. It is also a healthy source of protein..

Apples.

It's nearly impossible to feel happy if you are feeling constipated. Make sure to incorporate plenty of foods full of fiber, like apples, to help keep your digestive system regular.

Salmon

Is recommended for relieving a multitude of your postmenopausal symptoms, likely because of its high content of omega-3 fatty acids.

Oysters.

Full of zinc for relieving skin irritation, and also known for promoting sexual virility. Doesn't everyone feel better when they feel pretty and satisfied?

Beans, Beans.

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

More Information about Depression:

If you have suffered from depression before, during, and after menopause and maintain healthy diet and exercise habits, your feelings may be unrelated to menopause. Ask your doctor what could be some other causes and also consider alternative treatments like acupuncture. Or maybe you need to talk to someone about your feelings and your doctor can recommend a counselor for you. Follow this link to read more on menopausal depression treatments.

To learn more about Depression