Natural Relief for Depression

The American Psychiatric Association states that depression affects approximately 18.8 million people in the United States. Depression can include feelings of helplessness and hopelessness, changes in eating and sleeping habits, and a general sense of loss of interest in daily activates with people, places and things. There are a variety of medications on the market, some more helpful than others. However, people who use a well-rounded wellness program for their depression symptoms such as exercise, eating well, medications and supplements might find some relief.

Exercise

Keith Johnsgard, author of Conquering Depression and Anxiety through Exercise, writes that when we exercise, our bodies release chemicals that are called endorphins. These chemicals begin to interact with the receptors within the brain and can trigger a positive feeling. Exercise also releases immune-system chemicals, and having a healthy immune system can ease some of the symptoms of depression. Additionally, exercise can build self-esteem, which can suffer when someone is depressed. Exercising only three times a week can have a great impact on people who suffer from mild to moderate depression.

Foods

There are certain foods that can help people with depression feel better. Gary Null, who wrote the book "The Food Mood Body Connection," believes that foods have a profound impact on depression. Eating foods that have a high quantity of vitamins is good for healthy moods. In addition, foods rich in minerals can also aid in depression. A healthy diet filled with fatty acids can also aid in depression. In addition, people should eat foods that are very low in fat and sugars. Michael Murray, N.D., who wrote Natural Alternatives to Prozac, writes that it is important to eat regular meals and keep blood-sugar levels regulated.

Supplements

There are a variety of good supplements that people with depression can take to ease their depression symptoms. According to the medical journal "Advances in Biochemical Psychopharmacolgy" in 1984, depression lessened with the use of 5-HTP. Omega-3 fatty acids are important in treating symptoms of depression, according to Andrew Stoll, author of The Omega-3 Connection. Omega-3 is important in the development as well as the functioning of the central nervous system, which can decrease depression. S-adenosyl-L-methionine, also called SAM-e, is a chemical found naturally in the body. Deborah Mitchell, author of SAM-e Solutions, says this supplement increases neurotransmitters such as serotonin and dopamine, which affect moods and depression. Other supplements can include folic acid, B vitamins, amino acids, and St. John's Wort.