Are there Foods to Avoid While Taking Medication for Depression?

“I live in Chicago and I was diagnosed with depression. My medication works well to control my symptoms. However, I notice that some situations and certain foods can set me off. What are some things that I should avoid?”

People with mood disorders do frequently report that certain foods contribute to symptoms. For example, caffeine and nicotine can have adverse effects on your nervousness and anxiety level. Certain foods can contribute to lethargy others can act as stimulants or depressants with equally devastating effects on your mood and behavior. Another simple issue is the ingestion of liquids, especially water. In any guide to healthy living, one finds a recommendation to drink 8 glasses of water per day. Who does this?—Not me! But, even something as simple as having enough water can have a positive effect on your mood.

You do not mention your age, weight, life style, marital status, level of activity and general physical condition. All of these are extremely important aspects of a comprehensive assessment of “what is setting you off.”

In order to address your question, we need the answers to many questions. Aging and medication are related. As we age, our body may react differently to our medication. It is important to assess whether the medications are still working as we age. Perhaps they will need to be adjusted or changed. Have there been changes in weight lately? Weight changes not only affect energy level, but can also affect how medications interact in our bodies. What is my life style and has it changed recently? For instance, do I exercise regularly? Am I in generally good health? Do I have regular physical examinations? Am I married or have a significant relationship? The quality of one’s relationships has a significant effect on our general level of well being. The answers to these and other questions will better serve to determine “what is setting you off.”

The last sentence of your question was: “What are some things that I  should avoid?” This is the wrong question. I get this same question from many of my own patients. You have it backwards! The point is not identifying foods and activities to avoid. The point is identifying foods and activities that have the capacity to maintain symptom reduction and promote a general sense of well being. This happens through discipline and dedication. One must have a schedule, a routine that includes the basic elements of a healthy lifestyle. This means a healthy diet, regular exercise, mental as well as physical activity, a positive self image and the maintenance of positive social interaction with friends and significant others.

Finally and as usual, I recommend the DBSA and DBSA-GC websites for a number of important links regarding information, support and encouragement.

~Manuel S. Silverman, PhD