Depression and diet Free Essay Example, 1250 words

Depression and Diet and Depression and Dieting In order to reduce depression and fight off lethargy and apathy, it is important to regularly eat adequately. Having insufficient meals is sometimes referred to as under-nutrition. Under-nutrition is usually a result of inadequate food intake, dietary imbalances, and deficiencies of specific nutrients. Not eating regularly can have a severe consequence on an individual’s health and wellbeing, as well as quality of life. The impacts that inadequate eating can have on the general health and wellbeing range from reduced quality of life and ability of working, to taking care of oneself. In addition, undernourished patients also have more GP visits and hospital admissions (Marks et al, 2012, pp. 4-7). Depressed patients who do not eat sufficiently are chronically underweight and thus susceptible to acute illnesses. One of the reasons for which people do not eat adequately is depression. However, the consequences of not eating regularl y are far and wide. The y include: weight loss, impaired immune system, which eventually slows wound healing and increase the risk of pressure sores, vitamin deficiency, muscle wasting and weakness, impaired respiratory or cardiac function and mobility and unfit dentures. We will write a custom essay sample on Depression and diet or any topic specifically for you Only $17.96 $11.86/pageorder now Eventually, the patient may be more depressed than usual, culminating in general lethargy and sluggishness (Abbott Nutrition, 2012, pp. 7-9). To reduce malnutrition, patients should be motivated to eat and drink normal foods. Once they eat regular meals, they will acquire strength to reduce apathy and general body weakness quickly. Should the patients fail to gain weight owing to their poor appetite, food and drinks can be enriched thus providing them with more calories and proteins (Gill, 2012, pp. 2-7). The quantity of food usually remains constant. For instance, a double cream or cheese may be mixed with soups and mashed potatoes and vaporized milk may be mixed with jellies. Further, the patient may consult a dietician. Nutritional enhancements or sip feeds may also be suggested. Be that as it may, this should serve as a last resort since real food must be the better option (Dyball and Rock, 2011, pp. 16-18). Adrenal fatigue is the avenue through which respiratory infections, allergies, asthma, rhinitis, fibromyalgia, frequent colds, hypoglycemia and diabetes II attack the human body. The ability to undertake laborious activities such as sex, and add metabolism supporting muscles in order to burn fat and live healthily, is highly influenced by adrenals.