Depression is a severe medical condition that can significantly impact an individual’s quality of life.

It can make it difficult for people to accomplish everyday tasks, leaving them feeling hopeless and fatigued. One way to cope with depression is by consuming healthy comfort food that nourishes both the body and mind. However, it’s important to keep in mind that consuming too many calories can have adverse effects on your overall health. Therefore, it’s essential to choose low-calorie comfort foods that can help to boost your mood and energy levels.

Benefits of Low Calorie Comfort Food for Depression

Comfort food has always been a popular choice for people looking to improve their mood. However, most comfort foods are high in calories, sugar, and unhealthy fats.

While eating these foods can provide temporary relief, they can ultimately lead to weight gain and other health issues over time.

Eating healthy low calorie comfort food can help improve your mood and energy levels, without the added risk of health issues. Here are some of the benefits of choosing low calorie comfort food when dealing with depression:.

Keeps you feeling fuller for longer periods
Boosts your energy levels
Provides essential nutrition that your body needs
Improves overall health and well-being

Low Calorie Comfort Food ideas for Beating Depression

1. Greek Yogurt Parfait

A Greek yogurt parfait is an excellent low-calorie comfort food option. It is rich in protein, which can help to keep you fuller for longer periods. The yogurt also contains probiotics, which has been shown to have positive effects on mood.

You can add fresh fruits, such as berries, to increase the nutritional content as well as the flavor.

2. Vegetable Soup

Vegetable soup is an excellent option for those looking for low-calorie comfort food to help beat depression. Soups are filling, warm and can provide essential vitamins and minerals.

You can add different vegetables such as carrots, beans, and kale to make the soup nutritious and flavorful.

3. Baked Sweet Potato Fries

Baked sweet potato fries are an excellent low-calorie comfort food option for people dealing with depression. They are packed with vitamins A and C, fiber, and potassium.

Sweet potatoes are also known to have anti-inflammatory properties that can help relieve stress and improve mood.

4. Grilled Chicken Breast

Grilled chicken breast is a healthy source of protein that’s low in calories. It’s a good option for those looking for low-calorie comfort food that is nutrient-rich.

Grilled chicken breast is also a great source of tryptophan, an amino acid that helps in the production of serotonin, which is a feel-good neurotransmitter.

5. Sautéed Spinach with Garlic

This is an excellent low-calorie comfort food option for people dealing with depression. Spinach is a nutrient-rich vegetable that contains vitamin C, folate, and potassium.

Garlic has many health benefits, including anti-inflammatory properties, which can help reduce stress and improve mood.

6. Oatmeal with Berries

Oatmeal with berries is an excellent low-calorie comfort food option for breakfast. Oatmeal is a rich source of fiber that can help keep you full for longer periods.

Berries such as blueberries, strawberries, and raspberries are packed with antioxidants, which can help reduce inflammation and improve overall health.

7. Low Fat Cottage Cheese with Pineapple

Low fat cottage cheese with pineapple is another excellent low-calorie comfort food option for people dealing with depression.

Cottage cheese is an excellent source of protein, while pineapple is rich in vitamin C, which has been shown to have positive effects on mood.

8. Dark Chocolate

Dark chocolate is an excellent low-calorie comfort food option for people dealing with depression. It contains flavonoids that can help reduce inflammation and improve mood. You can consume a small amount of dark chocolate as a dessert or snack.

9. Baked Salmon

Baked salmon is an excellent low-calorie comfort food option for people dealing with depression. It is a rich source of omega-3 fatty acids, which have been shown to have positive effects on mood.

Salmon is also a rich source of protein, which can help keep you fuller for longer periods.

10. Chickpea Salad

Chickpea salad is an excellent low-calorie comfort food option for people dealing with depression.

Chickpeas are an excellent source of protein and fiber, while the vegetables such as tomatoes, cucumbers, and broccoli provide essential nutrients and flavor. You can also add a vinaigrette dressing for added taste.

Conclusion

Depression can significantly impact an individual’s quality of life.

While it can be challenging to maintain a healthy diet when dealing with depression, it’s essential to choose low-calorie comfort food options that nourish both the body and mind. The low-calorie comfort food options mentioned above can help to alleviate symptoms of depression and improve overall health and well-being.