Post-Flu Depression? Increase Your Serotonin

You're nearly over the flu but still feel down in the dumps -- even depressed. It's not just because the laundry's 2 feet high and you're behind at work. Your immune system is still recovering from its no-holds-barred battle against the flu virus,

which required the unleashing of chemicals called cytokines that have a good cop/bad cop effect: Cytokines help your body fight the flu, but they also deplete your levels of serotonin, the key "feel good" chemical in your brain. That means there's less of the happy stuff bouncing between your brain cells, and it takes time to replenish your serotonin supply.

Here's how to recover your good spirits faster:

Put yourself on light duty. Keep getting plenty of sleep. Postpone that shopping expedition, weekend trip, or skating party till you feel chipper.

Boost your B6. Aim for at least 3.7 milligrams a day of this vitamin, which helps your body produce serotonin. Find it in B-fortified cereals, fresh tuna, baked potatoes, and bananas.

Munch on apples and broccoli. Both contain a flavonoid called quercetin, which keeps immunity high even when you're still feeling wiped out. Wash 'em down with hot tea, which is packed with compounds that boost your body's virus-fighting proteins.

Walk it off. A 30-minute walk is a proven way to lift mild to moderate depression. Feeling too whipped to do it all at once? Break it up into three 10-minute walks or two 15-minute outings.

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