Depression is a medical condition that affects the brain and the emotions as well as the body. Numerous nutrients may have an action on treating the symptoms of depression, according to the Mayo Clinic. Both herbs and vitamins can change brain chemistry. A variety of books explain the chemistry of the brain and how to use different diets to treat depression.
The Omega-3 Connection: The Groundbreaking Anti-depression Diet and Brain Program
The author of "The Omega-3 Connection: The Groundbreaking Anti-depression Diet and Brain Program," is a professor of psychiatry at Harvard and the research directory at McLean Hospital. Using his background in pharmacology and mental health, he explains the biochemical pathway used by the Omega-3 nutrients in restoring brain health and preventing depression. He suggests omega-3s can also be used to treat stress, memory loss and insomnia. The book contains explanations of scientific research, investigation into the diet of countries whose food source is rich in omega-3s, along with recipes and advice on types of supplements and the dosage requirements.
Depression-Free, Naturally
"Depression-Free, Naturally: 7 Weeks to Eliminating Anxiety, Despair, Fatigue, and Anger from Your Life" is written by a nutritionist, who explains the relationship between diet and balanced brain chemistry. The author's premise is that many forms of depression are caused by nutritional deficiencies. She suggests eliminating fast foods and sugary foods from the diet, as they can rob the brain of nutrients. The book lists beneficial foods, along with nutritional supplements and a diet plan.
The Mood Cure
"The Mood Cure: The 4-Step Program to Take Charge of Your Emotions -- Today" presents a guide to nutritional supplements that help alleviate symptoms of depression. The book is thorough in explaining the role of various nutrients and their pathway of action in the brain. A questionnaire is included for readers to ascertain the type of depression they may be experiencing, which then references the appropriate chapters and the diets and nutrients that may help.
References
- "The Omega-3 Connection: The Groundbreaking Anti-depression Diet and Brain Program"; Andrew Stoll; 2001
- "The Mood Cure: The 4-Step Program to Take Charge of Your Emotions -- Today"; Ross; 2003
- Mayo Clinic: Alternative Medicine
- "Depression-Free, Naturally: 7 Weeks to Eliminating Anxiety, Despair, Fatigue, and Anger from Your Life'; Larson; 2001
- "The Mood Cure: The 4-Step Program to Take Charge of Your Emotions--Today"; Ross; 2003
