Scientists and medical professionals have known for a long time that exercise can help prevent depression, but how much exercise does it take?
A recent study published in the American Journal of Psychiatry, the results show even small amounts of exercise can protect against depression, with mental health benefits seen regardless of age or gender. The study found that only exercising one hour a week can help.
Here are a couple more tips on how to prevent depression:
- Get enough sleep – Try to limit things that can disturb your sleep. Avoid drinking or eating high sugar items before bed. Don’t exercise right before you go to bed. Unplug from your electronic devices 15 minute before you go to bed.
- Regulate your blood sugar – Reduce eating high sugary meals that can result in the “sugar crash”. This is very common during the holidays with all the goodies.
- Set aside “you” time – Plan to do some things, weekly, that you are passionate about and energize you. This will not only re-energize you but give you something to look forward to during tough spells.
- Eat healthy fats – Eat more foods that are rich in Omega-3’s, like, nuts and fish.
Just a little exercise can help prevent depression, so get out their and get moving!