Proper nutrition, diet and supplements
Unfortunately, many depression treatments involve a number of medicines that may have unhealthy side effects.
It can be worthwhile to explort “natural” depression treatments that do not involve some cocktail of
hard-to-spell medications that can be taken as a preventive and beneficial alternative to mainstream treatments.
Although any form of depression should be consulted with a doctor let’s take a look at a list of natural supplements
that may help alleviate symptoms of depression.
It Starts with a healthy Diet
Depression can be treated with better nutrition. Studies have shown that such treatment not only has a
beneficial effect on the person’s physical health, but also a favorable effect on the person’s mental and
emotional health. This nutritional treatment includes modification of diet, vitamins and minerals, and the
addition of some amino acid supplements.
The amino acid supplements are essential elements that are precursors to neurotransmitters. The amino acids D,
L-pheylalanine and L-tyrosine are a viable alternative to antidepressant drugs.
Vitamins & Minerals
A deficiency in vitamins and minerals
in the body can also cause depression. Even if you are not sure if you lack vitamins and minerals,
supplementing your diet with them will often improve symptoms related to depression and will contribute to
better overall health.
Some Very Useful Herbs
The herb St. John's Wort (Hypericum perforatum) in an extracted standardized form is being used in Germany
and other European countries to treat depression in its mild and moderate forms. It is also known to alleviate
anxiety and sleep disorders.
This herb claims many benefits – among them are its anti-depressive and antiviral properties.
The Ginkgo (Ginkgo Biloba) extract,
while not a primary treatment for major cases of depression, is an
excellent supplement to any depression-related syndrome. Studies are beginning to show that Ginkgo can be
used to treat some forms of it that are not responsive to antidepressant agents.
Cut Back on Those Soft Drinks
Studies show that a decrease in the
intake of sugars and refined carbohydrates can produce relief from symptoms of depression.
This diet will entail cutting down on sugary drinks, pasta, white bread, and other processed foods. For your
carbohydrate needs, it would be healthier to stick to grains, whole wheat, and other natural plant based
carbohydrates.
Healthy snacks are recommended
over sugary alternatives for those who feel depressed and languid during the
late hours of the morning and the afternoon. For these people, eating sugary foods induces a temporary feeling
of alleviation from depression. However, this is only for a few minutes, and the body automatically reverts to languid
depression.
NEXT: Suicide prevention
| 
