Have you experienced anxiety and depression after 40 years old? If so, did you also have low levels of energy, not finding any pleasure in life and waking up in the small hours and unable to get back to sleep? Why does depression occur in women particularly in midlife? Well, it has to do with hormones! When hormonal levels are optimal, you can enjoy benefits of fat loss, easy weight maintenance and increased energy and stamina. When hormone levels become deficient as we age, anxiety and depression can occur. So, depression is not all just “in the mind”. Inflammation in the body is to blame. Chronic and unresolved inflammation can lead to depression. Women tend to have an inflammatory response to certain fats in their diet which can then also lead to elevated blood sugar levels.
So, how do we combat depression after 40? The 3 best ways are:
- Exercise
- Eat an anti-inflammatory diet
- Surround yourself with happy people!
As we now know that there is a link between inflammation in the body and depression, an anti-inflammatory diet is best, i.e the Mediterranean Diet. Healthy foods can have a powerful effect on mood so here is what to include in your diet:
- Salmon & Sardines
- Fruits & Vegetables across the colour spectrum
- Olive Oil
- Wholegrains
- Squashes & Sweet Potatoes
- Include Probiotic foods such as Kimchi and Sauerkraut
Here is what to avoid:
- Alcohol
- Caffeine
- Refined and Processed foods
Also include a high quality Omega 3 supplement (I use a company called Zinzino – message me for more info) and Vitamin D.
My 30 Day Programme is an excellent tool to fight off depression – many people who have tried it say they feel much better in themselves even after a few days!! Exercising elevates your mood and combined with a diet enriched with plant-based foods leads to a decrease in depression. So instead of going to the doctor to be prescribed an anti-depressant, try a daily workout and healthier foods instead!