Stress is very common in people of all age groups. It can be due to the workplace, some disease, or anything else. People suggest doing yoga, and exercise can reduce stress level. But, we will talk about a few foods that can be beneficial in reducing stress.Such as: 1. Foods rich in Vitamin B12: Foods such as meat, liver, cereals and eggs are rich sources of vitamin B12 as they reduce inflammation in the body, and decrease in cortisol levels and stress.2. Omega-3 fatty Acids: Fish like salmon, tuna, mackerel and eggs are rich sources of animal-based Omega- 3 fatty acids while avocado, walnuts, chia seeds, and flaxseeds are plant-based Omega 3 fatty acids, can potentially reduce inflammation and stress in the body.3. Foods high in magnesium: Magnesium helps in reducing inflammation in the body, and metabolize cortisols. During stress, your body eliminates a lot of magnesium through urine, due to which the cortisol levels increase in your body. Foods such as pumpkin seeds, almonds, pistachios, broccoli, bananas, and avocado are high in magnesium.4. Foods rich in fibers and probiotics: Foods high in fiber such as fruits, vegetables, whole grains, whole grain oats, and legumes are high in fiber content and are also rich in prebiotics, which is good for your digestive health, which leads to more serotonin levels in the body and decreases stress. Source:-1. Naidoo U. (2020). Eat to Beat Stress. American journal of lifestyle medicine, 15(1), 39–42. https://doi.org/10.1177/15598276209739362. Naidoo U. (2020). Eat to Beat Stress. American journal of lifestyle medicine, 15(1), 39–42. https://doi.org/10.1177/1559827620973936

A healthy brain and a sharp memory is always a necessity. Whether you are a kid, student, independent or growing old, your brain should always stay young to maintain focus, memory, learning and coordinate with other body parts.Here are 5 best foods that can boost your brain power and improve your memory:-1. Fatty fish: Fish like salmon, tuna, and mackerel are rich sources of Omega 3 fatty acids, a healthy type of fat that makes up about 50% of your brain nerves. Omega 3 fatty acids can lower the rate of Alzheimer's disease and memory decline because of their antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties.2. Berries: Accoryto a study conducted in Harvard’s Brigham, eating berries like strawberries, blueberries and raspberries are linked to delay the memory decline by 2 years in patients with Alzheimer's disease. Researchers say that these berries contain flavonoids, a pigment found in plants which helps to boost memory.3. Caffeine: If you are a tea or coffee drinker, than you have can have an improved brain function. According to a study published in the Journal of Nutrition, the people who consumed tea or coffee everyday, had a better brain function due to caffeine found in tea and coffee, which increases focus and memory.4. Tomatoes: Tomatoes contain lycopene which is a potential antioxidant and anti-inflammatory compound which is able to reach the brain with the blood and help to protect the brain and prevent memory loss.5. Pumpkin seeds: Pumpkin seeds are rich in zinc, magnesium and vitamin B which helps in memory boosting and reducing depression by producing more hormones like serotonin and dopamines.Source:-1. Foods linked to better brainpower. (n.d.). Foods linked to better brainpower. Retrieved June 14, 2024, from https://www.health.harvard.edu/healthbeat/foods-linked-to-better-brainpower2. Kennedy D. O. (2015). Review: power foods for the brain. Cerebrum : the Dana forum on brain science, 2015, https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/26034529/3. Gómez-Pinilla F. (2008). Brain foods: the effects of nutrients on brain function. Nature reviews. Neuroscience, 9(7), 568–578. https://doi.org/10.1038/nrn2421

What are some common signs of depression, and how does depression differ from short-term emotional experiences like sadness or stress?Signs of DepressionAppetite Changes:Shifts in eating patterns, such as overeating or loss of appetite.Feelings of Insignificance or Guilt:Persistent emotions of being worthless or experiencing guilt.Sleeping Difficulties:Disruptions in sleep patterns, including insomnia or excessive sleeping.Loss of Energy:Persistent fatigue and a decline in overall energy levels.Suicidal Thoughts:Harboring thoughts of self-harm or suicide.Difficulty Concentrating or Decision-Making:Challenges in focusing, making decisions, or concentrating.Treatment Challenges:Despite diagnosis, some individuals avoid treatment due to:Fear of social stigma.Concerns about not being perceived as "normal" by society.Distinguishing Depression from Temporary Feelings:Depression is distinct from transient feelings related to events like job loss, failed relationships, or weather-related blues.Unlike short-lived emotions, depression is characterized by a prolonged impact linked to mental hormonal imbalances.Disclaimer : This video is for educational purposes only. Please consult your doctor for any health or medicine related query. Reliance on any information provided by Medwiki is solely at your own risk.Find us at:https://www.instagram.com/medwiki_/?hl=en https://twitter.com/medwiki_inchttps://www.facebook.com/medwiki.co.in/

Depression can be managed using various antidepressants, cognitive behavioral therapy, and natural herbs or remedies.However, there are several ways to alleviate depression without medications, including:1. Exercise: Engaging in at least 30 minutes of physical activity such as walking, cycling, dancing, or swimming can release endorphins, which are natural mood enhancers that help reduce stress and depression.2. Meditation: Practicing meditation for 10-15 minutes daily can foster openness and acceptance, uplifting your mood and decreasing depression.3. Relaxation Techniques: Incorporating daily yoga for 30 minutes, enjoying beautiful scenery, or taking warm baths can help reduce symptoms of depression.4. Music Therapy: Listening to music daily while showering, gardening, or cooking can boost your mood, increase relaxation, and lower stress, contributing to reduced depression.5. Herbal Remedies: Using herbs and supplements with antidepressant properties, such as St. John's wort, ginseng, or 5-HTP (5 hydroxytryptophan), may alleviate depressive symptoms.6. Healthy Lifestyle: Maintaining a balanced diet rich in fruits and vegetables, ensuring 7-8 hours of sleep each night, and avoiding alcohol and drugs can help diminish the symptoms of depression.Source :-1. Natural Relief for Depression. (2024, April 19). Natural Relief for Depression. https://www.hopkinsmedicine.org/health/wellness-and-prevention/natural-relief-for-depression2. Li, M., Wang, L., Jiang, M., Wu, D., Tian, T., & Huang, W. (2020). Relaxation techniques for depressive disorders in adults: a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials.International Journal of Psychiatry in Clinical Practice,24(3), 219-226.https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32425133/

How is Major Depressive Disorder (MDD) diagnosed, and what are the key symptoms outlined by the DSM-5 that mental health professionals consider when determining if an individual is experiencing clinical depression?Symptoms and Diagnosis of Major Depressive Disorder (MDD):DSM-5 for Mental Health Diagnosis:Utilizes the DSM-5 to diagnose mental health disorders, including depression.Major Depressive Disorder (MDD):Commonly known as clinical depression.Diagnosed when a person experiences at least five depression symptoms for at least two weeks.Key Symptoms of MDD:Depressed mood or loss of interest/pleasure in activities.Significant weight loss or gain.Insomnia or hypersomnia.Psychomotor agitation or retardation.Fatigue or loss of energy.Feelings of worthlessness or excessive guilt.Diminished ability to think or concentrate.Recurrent thoughts of death or suicide.Professional Diagnosis:Consultation with a mental health professional is crucial for an accurate diagnosis.Assessment includes physical and psychological tests, interviews, medical and family history, and medication inquiries.Honesty and Openness:Open communication is essential for an accurate diagnosis and treatment plan development.Treatment Options:Therapy, medication, or a combination of both are common treatment approaches.Disclaimer:- This information is intended to supplement, not substitute, advice from your healthcare provider or doctor. It does not cover all possible uses, precautions, interactions, or side effects, and may not be appropriate for your specific healthcare needs. Always consult with your doctor or another qualified healthcare provider before modifying or discontinuing any prescribed portion of your healthcare plan or treatment, in order to determine the best course of therapy for you. Do not ignore or delay professional medical advice based on anything you have seen or read on Medwiki.Find us at:https://www.instagram.com/medwiki_/?h...https://medwiki.co.in/ https://twitter.com/medwiki_inchttps://www.facebook.com/medwiki.co.in/

Could it be that you’re reading this article because someone you know is suffering from depression, or is it you?If it is you, you might have already started with antidepressants and might know a lot of the related buzzwords. But do you know how effective these drugs are and how they work?If you don't, keep reading.The truth is that most of us even after being acquainted with depression don’t know much about the treatment procedure and mechanisms. According to a recent study conducted on mental health, 2.7% of people in India suffer from depression. This statistic highlights a significant portion of the population dealing with this mental health issue. Still there’s a lot to be known about antidepressants because the brain and its functioning are complex. Let’s now dive deep into the ocean of antidepressants.What are antidepressants?If you know about depression, you might possibly know them as imbalance of chemicals in the brain or a deficiency of serotonin but depression is much more than this. Antidepressants work to alter the functioning of the brain by controlling the chemicals or neurotransmitters in the brain which are responsible for transmitting signals across the brain. These chemicals include dopamine and noradrenaline along with serotonin.Suggested Read: What Causes DepressionAntidepressants are further classified into some groups based on their functioning, so it's important to know about them to understand antidepressants thoroughly.Reuptake Inhibitors:You must be wondering what they are, why are they called so?Reuptake is the process in the brain in which the neurotransmitters, after their release, are taken up back by the brain cells. Stopping which could improve transmission and communication between the brain cells and thus regulate the mood. It is done by the reuptake inhibitors.Reuptake inhibitors are of three types:Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) prevent serotonin from being reabsorbed, which increases the level of serotonin in the brain leading to improved mood.Serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs) prevent the reuptake of both serotonin and norepinephrine and increase their availability in the brain. It helps to improve mood and treat symptoms of depression.Norepinephrine and dopamine reuptake inhibitors (NDRIs) halt the reuptake of norepinephrine and dopamine in the brain.Suggested Read: Take This Anxiety Test to know your Mental Health StatusOlder Antidepressants:Tricyclic antidepressants (TCAs) are an older antidepressant that affects both serotonin and norepinephrine, and they also affect other neurotransmitters, such as histamine and acetylcholine, which can lead to more side effects.Monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs) work by inhibiting the enzyme monoamine oxidase, which is responsible for breakdown of serotonin. This increases the amount of serotonin available in the brain, which can help to improve mood and relieve symptoms of depression.Suggested Read: Fruits vs. Mental Health Meds - Which One Works Better?Other Antidepressants:Tetracyclics acts by preventing the neurotransmitters from binding to specific receptors on the nerves, this leads to accumulation of neurotransmitters between the nerve cells leading to rise in their level.Serotonin antagonist and reuptake inhibitor (SARIs) performs dual function by inhibiting the reuptake of serotonin as well as preventing them from binding at undesirable sites.Suggested Read: The Surprising Benefits of Laughter : How Humor Can Improve Your Mental Health?To conclude:A lot about the antidepressants are yet to be discovered, we aren’t really sure if they can treat depression completely but the bottom line to all the confusion is that it has been found effective in the studies and people claim to have been helped through antidepressants. So next time your doctor prescribes you antidepressants, stick to it and follow the instructions.Remember, antidepressants take time to show its effect; patience is crucial.

Are you looking for a delicious and healthy way to give your brain a boost?Look no further than sunflower seeds! These little seeds are packed with essential nutrients like vitamin E, which has been shown to protect against cognitive decline. And the best part? You can enjoy sunflower seeds in so many different ways! Have you tried making your own sunflower seed butter?This butter is a great alternative to regular peanut butter and is full of healthy fats. Simply blend 2 cups of roasted sunflower seeds with 1 tablespoon of honey and 1/4 teaspoon of salt until smooth.Sunflower Seed GranolaThis crunchy granola is perfect for breakfast or as a snack. Mix 2 cups of rolled oats, 1/2 cup of sunflower seeds, 1/4 cup of honey, 1/4 cup of coconut oil, and 1 teaspoon of cinnamon. Bake at 325°F for 20-25 minutes.Sunflower Seed PestoThis nut-free pesto is a great topping for pasta or as a dip. Blend 1/2 cup of roasted sunflower seeds, 2 cloves of garlic, 1/4 cup of olive oil, 1 tablespoon of lemon juice, and 1/4 teaspoon of salt until smooth.Try these sunflower seed recipes to give your brain a nutritional boost!It's a great alternative to regular peanut butter and is full of healthy fats. Or how about some crunchy sunflower seed granola for breakfast or as a snack? And don't forget about sunflower seed pesto, a delicious nut-free topping for pasta or a dip for your veggies.So next time you're looking for a brain-boosting snack, try out one of these tasty sunflower seed recipes!Source:- https://healthyhelperkaila.com/brain-boosting-breakfast-trail-mix/Disclaimer:- This information is intended to supplement, not substitute, advice from your healthcare provider or doctor. It does not cover all possible uses, precautions, interactions, or side effects, and may not be appropriate for your specific healthcare needs. Always consult with your doctor or another qualified healthcare provider before modifying or discontinuing any prescribed portion of your healthcare plan or treatment, in order to determine the best course of therapy for you. Do not ignore or delay professional medical advice based on anything you have seen or read on Medwiki.Find us at:https://www.instagram.com/medwiki_/?h...https://twitter.com/medwiki_inchttps://www.facebook.com/medwiki.co.in/

How do you currently manage or cope with social anxiety, especially in the context of your job?How Your Job Can Make Social Anxiety Worse:Pressure to Perform: The expectations at work to meet certain performance levels can exacerbate social anxiety.Interacting with Coworkers: Social interactions, especially during meetings or presentations, can be stressful for those with social anxiety.Work-Life Balance Struggles: Constantly working without time for hobbies or socializing outside of work can worsen social anxiety.Managing Social Anxiety at Work:Talk to Your Boss: Discussing social anxiety with your boss may lead to accommodations or referral to an Employee Assistance Program.Self-Care: Taking care of yourself through proper sleep, exercise, and engaging in enjoyable activities can help manage social anxiety.Seek Professional Help: If social anxiety significantly affects work, seeking assistance from a therapist can aid in developing coping strategies.Conclusion: Managing social anxiety at work is feasible by understanding its impact and implementing strategies to boost confidence and control.Disclaimer:- This information is intended to supplement, not substitute, advice from your healthcare provider or doctor. It does not cover all possible uses, precautions, interactions, or side effects, and may not be appropriate for your specific healthcare needs. Always consult with your doctor or another qualified healthcare provider before modifying or discontinuing any prescribed portion of your healthcare plan or treatment, in order to determine the best course of therapy for you. Do not ignore or delay professional medical advice based on anything you have seen or read on Medwiki.Find us at:https://www.instagram.com/medwiki_/?h...https://twitter.com/medwiki_inchttps://www.facebook.com/medwiki.co.in/