subject: Feeling Fit For 2011 - Diet And Holidays [print this page] It's an illness that's still not fully understood by the medical world, and certainly not by the wider public, and depression can come in many forms and the causes be varied.
Unemployment and poverty are well known and understandable causes of depression, but suicide isn't unknown among the successful and wealthy too.
Something as simple as the weather can have affect some people - the SAD syndrome has become more known about in recent years in both Europe and Northern America, where long dark winters impact some.
A poor diet can be another cause for depression, and for those whose illness is due to diet happily something can often be done about this. Not eating and low blood sugar levels can cause erractic mood swings.
The general consensus among health professionals is that most people are not paying enough attention to their diets. Few are getting enough daily physical activity. Even more alarming are statistics showing that many people are dying from preventable illnesses. Others are becoming increasingly depressed or affected by emotional problems.
For many depression carries a social stigma, and that's it's considered a mental illness results in many people being unwilling to seek qualified medical help.
Dealing with Depression
Depression affects many facets of a person's health. It can affect the body's normal functions, moods and thoughts and the way they behave. Depression varies in severity from person to person. Some sufferers may not even realise that they are displaying symptoms of the illness. Some of these symptoms are:
Trouble concentrating
Constantly feeling sad without knowing why
Sudden mood swings
Unusual behavior
A diagnosis is usually made if these and other symptoms persist for more than two weeks. For severe cases, drugs may be prescribed, but treatment recommendations also include exercise and changes in diet. In many cases a combination treatment option is best.
Diet as a Treatment for Depression
It is an acknowledged fact that diet does not affect the body only on a physical level. It also has an effect on a psychological level. While not considered a complete course of treatment, diet can lead to positive changes for people suffering from depression. Some suggestions for alleviating the symptoms of depression with proper diet are:
Eating foods rich in antioxidants, as this helps to prevent free radical damage, which can affect brain function.
Getting enough protein to help improve concentration and energy levels.
Consuming healthy carbohydrates instead of processed carbohydrates. It is best to consume whole grains and legumes to maintain overall mood and reduce stress levels.
Using Holidays to Help Deal with Depression
The significance of getting away from it all to help battle depression can never be overstated. Many people use the chance to go on holiday to keep stress at bay. For many Brits, nothing beats the Spanish island of Menorca. With its pristine beaches and diverse offerings, it is one way to battle stress and depression.
Its healthy Mediterranean diet also includes the foods listed above. Anyone who spends time in Menorca could put themselves on the path to healthier living. It places a lot of emphasis on healthy carbohydrates and unrefined cereals, fish, vegetables and fruit. Studies have shown that following a diet rich in these foods may even help keep depression at bay.
The island is known for her quiet fishing villages and laid back resorts. Its holiday package differs from those of other islands in the area. It is geared more towards holidaymakers seeking relaxation as opposed to hard partying. It also has a variety of attractions and sights to keep any visitor engaged.
Part of Menorca's appeal rests on the fact that overdevelopment has been strenuously resisted. Her numerous green spaces make it a refuge for tourists who like to enjoy nature's unspoilt beauty. The capital of Mahon and old capital Ciutadella offer numerous sight seeing opportunities, just the thing to wrap up a stress free holiday.
Menorca holidays needn't be expensive, especially for UK residents. There's an array of airlines who provide flights.
For accommodation there's a good choice of hotels, and companies like James Villa Holidays have a good choice of self catering villa holidays - often coming with its own swimming pool.
There are no straightforward rules for beating depression. Making lifestyle changes, even small ones, can help improve one's overall sense of wellbeing. Going on holiday to de-stress is an important part of the journey towards good mental and physical health. Whether you choose Menorca or some other destination, it will have a positive impact in the long run and could help make 2011 a better year.
by: Henry Ashworth
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