Depression is a serious illness that effects thoughts, mood and behavior as well as the nervous system and the body, says Dr. James Balch and Phyllis Balch C.N.C., authors of "Prescription for Nutritional Healing." Irritability, chronic fatigue, digestive problems, headaches, changes in appetite, backaches, loss of interest and enjoyment in hobbies and activities and intense anger are all symptoms of depression. A variety of factors that contribute to depression. Consult with a health care professional if you are experiencing the symptoms of depression or have thoughts of suicide.
Diet
According to Lisha Simester, author of "The Natural Health Bible," inadequate nutrition is a contributing factor of depression. The levels of brain chemicals, or neurotransmitters, which influence a person's mood and attitude are directly effected by diet. Serotonin, dopamine and norepinephrine are the three main brain chemicals that influence mood. When these chemicals are adequately produced tension is eased and outlook and mood are improved.
Simester recommends eating a diet or protein rich foods that contain tryptophan to ease depression. Tryptophan is an amino acid that aids in the production of serotonin. Foods that contain tryptophan include eggs, beans, meat and fish. Simester also suggests including magnesium, zinc and vitamin B supplements, as well as plenty of omega-3 fatty acids, to your diet to ease depression. Omega-3 fatty acids are present in oily fishes, such as herring, salmon and mackerel. Fish oil supplements may also be purchased at most health food stores.
Consult with a health care professional before changing your diet to manage depression. Do not discontinue use of anti-depressants without first speaking with your doctor.
Thyroid Disorder
According to Balch, thyroid disorder may also trigger depression. There are two types of thyroid disorders: hyperthyroidism and hypothyroidism. Hyperthyroidism occurs when too much of the thyroid hormone is produced by the thyroid gland. Symptoms of hyperthyroidism include insomnia, fatigue, increased bowel movements, decreased menstrual flow, weight loss, irritability, rapid heartbeat, increased perspiration and intolerance to heat.
Hypothyroidism occurs when too little of the thyroid hormone is produced. Symptoms of hypothyroidism include weight gain, intolerance to cold, constipation, hair loss, fatigue, difficulty concentrating and loss of appetite.
Thyroid disorder can be managed with medication. Consult with a health care professional immediately if you believe that your depression is linked to a thyroid disorder.
Food Allergies
Food allergies are one of the most common causes of depression, writes Balch. An allergy is the result of the immune systems improper response to a substance. Common foods that may create an allergic reaction include eggs, dairy products, chocolate, dairy products, shellfish, wheat and strawberries.
To determine if you have an allergy to a specific food, Balch recommends getting into a relaxed state and taking your pulse for one minute before eating the food. After consuming the food, wait 15 to 20 minutes and take your pulse again. If your pulse rate is over 10 beats higher than the previous rate you may have a food allergy.
Consult with a health care professional immediately if you feel that you are experiencing depression precipitated by a food allergy.
References
- "Prescription fo Nutritional Healing"; James F. Balch, M.D. and Phyllis A. Balch, C.N.C.; 1997
- "The Natural Health Bible"; Lisha Simester; 2006
