Never see depression as a permanent thing. You might have Seasonal Affective Disorder or depression due to a recent event (loss of job), or you might only feel temporarily nostalgic.

But if we go deep: Depression is a mental health disorder characterized by sadness, hopelessness, worthlessness, and lack of interest in life. It can affect your mood, behavior, thoughts, and physical health. Symptoms of depression can include changes in sleep and appetite, feelings of guilt or worthlessness, difficulty concentrating, fatigue, and suicidal thoughts.

It’s not fun to be depressed because you’re missing out on life!

However, depression is treatable, and many options are available including therapy, medication, lifestyle changes, and self-care strategies.

You think: Am I Depressed? Maybe you’re just triggered by bad memes.

WHAT IS GUT BACTERIA?

Gut bacteria, also known as gut microbiota, are microorganisms living in the digestive system. They are essential for a healthy digestive system, as they help to break down food, absorb nutrients, and protect against diseases.

Gut bacteria also influence the body’s metabolism and immune system. Pretty much, if you have a healthy gut, everything else in your body works like a well-oiled machine.

HOW is gut bacteria related to depression

Recent research has suggested that the gut microbiome may play a role in depression.

Studies have shown that an imbalance of gut bacteria can cause inflammation in the brain, leading to depression. Luckily for you (and me and us), certain probiotics have been found to reduce the symptoms of depression in some individuals.

Take a closer look at your neon intestine. Pretty cool, right?

CLEVER LOW-BUDGET SOLUTIONS

At TryMagenta, we like to save money, but sometimes we like to try fancy products. I didn’t know how to react when I found out that Dollar Tree was now Dollar .25 Tree. But, you see, you can go there and find new items, good for gut bacteria, at super affordable prices, like pickles, dark chocolate, and yogurt snacks.

Products that contain prebiotics, probiotics, and fermented ingredients are good for your gut. Prebiotics are plant-based fibers found in foods like garlic, onions, asparagus, and leeks. You can easily go to your local grocery store (Walmart or Aldi). We want to know, here in the US, where do you shop for your groceries?

FANCY SOLUTIONS

Ask money to your sugar daddy to visit Whole Foods today. Buy yogurt, kimchi, sauerkraut, and miso. Also, buy fermented foods, such as kefir, tempeh, and kombucha, which contain beneficial bacteria and yeasts.

Then, have fun with the ingredients and make salads, smoothies, and main dishes. Just make sure you’re consistent. That way, you’re training your gut to get its mind right.

CREATIVE SOLUTIONS

Ok, this is a good one. I read about a couple that grew their own vegetables in an urban garden. They didn’t have much space, so they created a vertical garden—more about this idea in Almanac.

AM I DEPRESSED? TAKE THIS QUIZ

PLUS: ESPRESSO FOR MY DEPRESSO. WHY COFFEE PROMOTES HEALTHY GUT BACTERIA?

If coffee is your addiction, we have good news for you. Coffee, in moderation, can be beneficial for gut bacteria! (Insert happy emoji face).

Studies have shown that coffee can help to increase the diversity of gut bacteria and reduce the levels of harmful bacteria. Additionally, certain compounds in coffee, such as chlorogenic acid, can help to protect the gut lining and reduce inflammation.

However, it is important to drink coffee in moderation, as too much can lead to dehydration and other negative effects.

No longer depressed, happy with coffee (and a healthy gut).

IN CONCLUSION