New Customer Offer | SAVE 27%

Verve
Try risk free
Free UK delivery
Free premium welcome kit worth £45
Refer a friend and save £30
Try Risk Free

We know you will love V80 as much as we do, which is why we are offering the opportunity to try risk free. Simply sign up here and we will send you a free sachet so you can try before you buy.

Get Your Free Sample

Free UK delivery

Order by 5pm Monday - Friday to receive free next working day delivery with our award-winning delivery service. Select Shop Pay at checkout to receive free Carbon Neutral Delivery.
(Mainland UK delivery only)

Shop Now

Free premium welcome kit worth £45

All first orders come with a starter pack worth a whopping £45! When you purchase your 30 day supply of V80 - your welcome pack includes a brand-new Verve glass travel bottle, a refillable stainless steel storage tin and a 100% recyclable serving scoop. It's a deal that's hard to pass up. Bit of a no-brainer, right?

Shop Now

Give £15 Get £30

Refer a friend and you’ll get £30 off your next purchase after they subscribe or make their first purchase and your friend with get £15 off their first order.

Refer a friend

Is Your Diet Causing Depression & Anxiety?

Managing mental health can often begin with what we put on our plates. Nutrition is a cornerstone of well-being, and in the modern age, we're understanding more and more how certain foods can influence our moods. While a healthy diet alone isn't a cure for mental health issues, incorporating the right foods can be a valuable part of an overall treatment plan for anxiety and depression. In this bog, we’ll explore various foods that reduce anxiety & depression. Let’s dive in.

Food Anxiety Relief

Below, we’ve listed some of the best foods that can relieve anxiety:

Turmeric

Turmeric is a golden spice renowned for its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, thanks to curcumin, its active compound. 

Curcumin has been studied for its potential effects on brain health and could play a role in alleviating symptoms of anxiety. 

It's believed to counteract oxidative stress and inflammation, physiological components that may contribute to anxiety. Additionally, turmeric facilitates the increase of omega-3 DHA in the brain, which is important for emotional health.

Yogurt

Yogurt is much more than a breakfast staple; it's a rich source of probiotics, which are beneficial bacteria that support gut health. 

The gut-brain axis is a communication network linking emotional and cognitive centres of the brain with peripheral intestinal functions. 

Regular consumption of probiotic-rich yogurt may contribute to the maintenance of a healthy gut flora, which is essential for the production of neurotransmitters like serotonin, often referred to as the "feel-good" hormone, potentially reducing anxiety symptoms.

Blueberries

Blueberries are tiny powerhouses of nutrients and one of nature's highest antioxidant-rich foods. 

They contain flavonoids that have been shown to improve mood, reduce stress, and promote a calm and clear mind. 

The antioxidants in blueberries combat oxidative stress, which is linked to a multitude of health issues, including anxiety disorders. The natural sugars in blueberries also offer a healthier energy boost compared to processed sugary snacks.

Green Tea

Green tea is a soothing beverage that contains L-theanine, an amino acid that provides a unique set of mental benefits, including reducing stress-related symptoms. 

L-theanine promotes relaxation and can help reduce the jitters associated with caffeine intake. 

It also increases the activity of the neurotransmitter GABA, which has anti-anxiety effects. Moreover, green tea can enhance alpha brain wave activity, which correlates with a state of calm, alert awareness.

Almonds

Almonds are nutritional powerhouses, rich in magnesium, a mineral that's vital for brain health and well-being. 

Magnesium deficiency has been linked to higher anxiety levels, and almonds can be an excellent food-based solution to ensure adequate intake. 

They also contain healthy fats, fibre, and antioxidants, supporting overall brain function and helping mitigate the symptoms of anxiety.

Eating for Depression: What foods help? 

Now that we’ve taken a look for the best foods for anxiety, let’s explore some that are proven to help depression.

Grape Seed Extract

  • Grape seed extract is packed with polyphenols, including flavonoids, which support brain health by protecting against oxidative stress, a factor that can influence depression. 
  • Studies suggest that polyphenols have neuroprotective effects and can enhance mood, cognitive function, and overall mental health. The antioxidants in grape seed extract also support cardiovascular health, which is important since there's a link between heart health and mental well-being.

Salmon

  • Salmon is an excellent source of omega-3 fatty acids, specifically EPA and DHA, which are critical for maintaining brain health and function. 
  • Omega-3 fats may help in lowering the risk of depression and are essential for neurotransmitter function, including serotonin and dopamine, both of which affect mood. The anti-inflammatory properties of these fatty acids are also important in combating the low-grade inflammation that's often associated with depression.

Spinach

  • Spinach is a leafy green vegetable rich in folate (vitamin B9), a nutrient that plays a pivotal role in managing depression. 
  • Folate contributes to the synthesis of neurotransmitters and the reduction of homocysteine levels in the blood, which is associated with depressive disorders. Spinach is also a source of other B vitamins, magnesium, and zinc, all nutrients that support mood regulation and prevention of depressive symptoms.

Dark Chocolate

  • Dark chocolate is not only a decadent treat but also a mood-enhancing food when consumed in moderation. It contains a high cocoa content, which means it's rich in flavonoids, caffeine, and theobromine - all compounds that can improve mood and promote a sense of well-being.
  •  Cocoa also stimulates the production of endorphins and increases the levels of serotonin in the brain, which can have an antidepressant effect.

Pro Tip: When it comes to dark chocolate for as dark as possible, 80-90% pure cocoa and no refined sugar.

Oysters

  • Oysters are a surprising addition to the list for depression, primarily due to their high zinc content. 
  • Zinc is a trace mineral that plays a vital role in neural function and mood regulation. Low levels of zinc have been linked to major depressive disorder, and oysters provide one of the highest natural sources of this nutrient. They also offer a good dose of vitamin B12, selenium, and omega-3 fatty acids, all supportive of mental health.

Diet For Depression & Anxiety 

A balanced diet can do wonders for our mood and energy levels, influencing both depression and anxiety.

  • Whole Foods for a Whole Mood: Prioritising whole foods is an excellent starting point. These foods are minimally processed and include fresh fruits and vegetables, whole grains, lean meats, fish, and legumes. They provide a plethora of nutrients that are essential for brain health and can help regulate mood.
  • Omega-3 Fatty Acids: Omega-3 fatty acids, found in oily fish like salmon, mackerel, and sardines, are particularly beneficial for brain health. These fats are integral components of cell membranes in the brain and play a crucial role in neuronal function.
  • Fibre:: There's a strong link between gut health and mental health, often referred to as the gut-brain axis. High-fibre foods such as beans, oats, and fruits can promote a healthy gut microbiome, which in turn can positively impact your mood.
  • Vitamins and Minerals: Micro Nutrients, Macro Impact B vitamins, vitamin D, magnesium, and zinc all play a role in regulating mood. Leafy greens, nuts, seeds, and whole grains are rich in these nutrients. They support brain function and neurotransmitter production, which are crucial for maintaining a balanced mood.
  • The Role of Antioxidants: Antioxidants help combat oxidative stress, which is believed to be a contributing factor to both depression and anxiety. Berries, nuts, dark chocolate, and green tea are rich in antioxidants and can help protect the brain from oxidative damage.
  • Hydration: Never underestimate the importance of staying hydrated. Dehydration can lead to fatigue and mood fluctuations, exacerbating symptoms of anxiety and depression.
  • Moderation is Key: t’s important to limit or avoid alcohol, caffeine, and foods high in refined sugars as these can exacerbate anxiety and depression symptoms. They can disrupt your sleep, dehydrate you, and lead to mood swings.
  • Putting It All Together: Incorporating a balance of these foods into your diet can be a great way to support your mental health. Consistency is also important — making gradual changes that you can maintain is better than drastic alterations that are hard to stick with.

Frequently Asked Questions

Let’s dive into some frequently asked questions around the topic. 

What food calms down anxiety?

To soothe anxiety, opt for foods rich in calming nutrients. Magnesium-loaded foods like leafy greens and seeds, omega-3 fatty acids from oily fish like salmon, and the antioxidants in berries help stabilise moods. Probiotics in fermented foods like yogurt also support a healthier gut-brain axis, contributing to emotional well-being.

What is the 3 3 3 rule for anxiety?

The 3-3-3 rule is a simple yet effective mindfulness exercise to manage anxiety. Identify and focus on three things you can see in your environment, listen for and name three sounds you can hear, and move three different parts of your body – such as your ankles, fingers, and shoulders – to help bring your mind back to the present.

What food triggers anxiety?

Certain foods can act as anxiety triggers due to their impact on the body's stress response. Caffeinated products, sugary foods, and heavily processed items may elevate stress hormones, while alcohol can alter mood-regulating neurotransmitters. Opt for whole, unprocessed foods to avoid these adverse effects.

What foods can lift your mood?

To elevate your mood, incorporate foods rich in essential nutrients. Vitamin D from fortified foods or fatty fish, complex carbohydrates like oats that help in serotonin production, and the omega-3s in seeds and nuts are all mood boosters. Dark chocolate in moderation can also be a delicious treat that promotes endorphin release.

What foods are good for depression UK?

In the UK, diets rich in omega-3 fatty acids from mackerel, trout, and other local fish can alleviate depression symptoms. Whole grains, with their B vitamins, and dark leafy greens like Scottish kale, abundant in folate, are great for boosting mood and fighting off

Discover positive daily habits

Barley Grass Benefits and Juice Magic
11 Fascinating Benefits of Alfalfa Leafs & Sprouts
Can Weight Loss Cause Back Pain?
V80 Transparent Greens Powder
Shop Verve Now

From £55.00