CWD Daily
Tips for Coping with Depression
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1-800-273-8255.
1-800-273-8255.
Tip of the Day
Studies show that people who regularly eat dark chocolate are less likely to be depressed.
According to a January 2020 article in PsychologyToday.com:
The mechanisms that may explain the antidepressant effects of dark chocolate are:
- Flavanols. Brain-protecting nutrients that are also found in red wine, berries, apples, citrus, and green and black teas, all foods associated with improvements in mood and cognition.
- Caffeine and theobromine. These deliver rapid effects on energy and cognition. Cocoa is the main source of theobromine, while caffeine is found in many foods other than coffee.
- N-acylethanolamines. This fatty acid has euphoric effects and shows promise in treating bacterial, fungal, and viral infections. It also exhibits anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, and antiviral properties.
- Phenylethylamine. It increases the release of dopamine which tells the brain that whatever it just experienced is worth getting more of. Dopamine also helps with reinforcement -- motivating an animal to do something again.
Though the scientific studies are ongoing, it seems dark chocolate in moderation is a great weapon to have in your arsenal.
Because... chocolate.
CWD Daily is written by Julie Aiken, a layperson whose only authority lies in 40 years of coping with depression. Nothing in the newsletter should be taken as medical advice. Please do no self-diagnose or self-prescribe. Above all, please get help if you need it.
Contact: witchhazel2020@gmail.com