Food Therapy For Depression
Posted by Depressed - 06/02/12 at 09:02 pmStatistics reveal that 1 in 10 Americans is afflicted with depression. This speaks clearly of the magnitude of the illness. Many have turned to antidepressants for comfort. While others resorted to or combined drug medication with other forms of treatment like psychotherapy, Electroconvulsive therapy (ECT), acupuncture and meditation. The discovery of endorphins in the 70s is evidence that exercise can be a form of therapy to ease depression. How about eating your way out of depression?
Here is a rundown of food essentials to preclude any vulnerability to a depressive symptom or condition.
Food rich in nutrients. A balanced and nutritious diet allows the body to function at optimum levels. A deficiency in nutrients could cause the body to function below normal capacity and lead to an illness.
Antioxidants. In the course of its normal functions, the body could produce damaging molecules referred to as free radicals. These contribute to aging and dysfunction. Foods rich in antioxidants combat the negative effects of the substances.
Studies have shown a probable link of protein-deficiency to depression. Proteins are energy boosters. Good sources of protein are beans and peas, lean beef, low-fat cheese, fish, milk, poultry, soy products, yogurt.
Carbohydrates. The link between carbohydrates and mood is can be traced to the brain chemical, serotonin. Carbohydrate craving may be related to decreased serotonin activity, although experts are not sure if there is a link.
Omega-3 fatty acids are essential to brain function and normal growth and development. They seemed to have a hand in cognitive and behavioral functions. They appear to have an impact on cognitive and behavioral functions. A deficiency in these fatty acids are potential causes of fatigue, mood swings and depression.
Vitamin Deficiency
Thiamine or Vitamin B1 provides the brain with energy. This can lead to fatigue, depression, irritability, anxiety, and even thoughts of suicide.
Vitamin B3 (niacin). A deficiency of this vitamin or the condition referred to as pellagra is associated with incidences of psychosis and dementia. A subclinical deficiency is also known to result in agitated and anxious feelings, and mental and physical slowness.
Vitamin B5 (pantothenic acid). This is needed for hormone formation and the uptake of amino acids and the brain chemical acetylcholine, which combine to prevent certain types of depression. Fatigue, chronic stress, and depression are symptoms of a lack of this vitamin.
Eating right has invaluable benefits. One’s physical, mental and psychological conditions are sometimes reflective of one’s lifestyle and outlook. Advances in medical technology may have provided treatments for many illnesses but an individual has a lot to contribute as well to his own health.
Of course, people are not responsible for their congenital defects. But women who are pregnant and using antidepressants may make decisions that lessen the risks. There are certain drugs for depression that could cause these incidences like Paxil birth defects. So, when you take the drug, you may also want to talk to your doctor and reassess your treatment options. So, each time you take a drug, think as well if the benefits outweigh the risks.
URL Reference
http://www.paxilbirthdefectlaw.com/updates/low-levels-of-vitamin-d-linked-to-depression/
http://www.webmd.com/depression/guide/exercise-depression
http://depression.about.com/cs/diet/a/vitamin.htm
http://www.umm.edu/altmed/articles/omega-3-000316.htm
