When we feel anxious or depressed, we often seek solace in a tub of chocolate ice cream. But did you know that adding fish to your diet can also help you cope with stress? In this blog, we will go over a few ways that eating fish can improve your mood and mental wellbeing.
How can fish help you manage depression and stress?
We all know that seafood is good for your health as it contains protein and nutrients that can help you combat various diseases. Perhaps this is why online fish delivery is becoming increasingly popular in the UK. However, the advantages of seafood go beyond just treating physical ailments. People who consume seafood are actually considered to be happier and have a higher quality of life.
Incorporating fish into the diet can treat many mood disorders. This is thanks to omega-3 fatty acids, which fish are abundant in. According to a 2011 randomized controlled trial, since omega-3 fatty acids can traverse the brain cell membrane and interact with mood-related molecules in the brain, they can effectively help reduce inflammation and alleviate a number of mental disorders.
When it comes to mood disorders like postpartum depression, omega-3 fatty acids can work wonders as their anti-inflammatory properties can help women who are feeling a bit down, tearful or anxious. Omega-3 can also help patients with bipolar disorder manage their extreme mood swings. Furthermore, omega-3 fatty acids can be beneficial for mental illnesses such as schizophrenia, obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD), and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD).
What do the studies say?
Let’s take a closer look at some fascinating proven facts about the relationship between fish consumption and stress relief.
- According to a 2016 report published in the Journal of Affective Disorders, people who eat fish regularly have a 20% lower risk of developing mental health problems than those who do not. There have been several instances where people who consume 8-12 oz. of fish per week lowered their risk of depression. In fact, most psychiatric organizations in the UK and worldwide now consider fish consumption to be an essential component of depression treatment.
- Residents in countries where fish consumption is higher are less likely to suffer from depression. So, if depression and stress are your primary concerns, you should adopt a seafood-rich diet, such as the Mediterranean Diet.
- If you are already on antidepressants, you should undoubtedly incorporate fish in your diet, as it will significantly improve the medication’s efficacy. Fish contains protein, calcium, and omega-3 fatty acids, which are considered to boost your body’s response to antidepressants. So, if anybody can take advantage of online fish delivery services, it is you.
Fish consumption is the easiest way to relieve stress, anxiety, and depression. And with Seafood Direct’s fish delivery services in the UK, it gets even easier. We deliver fresh, responsibly sourced seafood right to the doorsteps of UK seafood lovers. If you have been dealing with feelings of depression or anxiety recently, head to our website today and get your dose of stress-relieving omega-3 fatty acids.