Depression, also called major depression or clinical depression, is a condition that affects your mind and body. Symptoms include feelings of sadness, loss of interest, sleeping difficulty, weight loss or gain, slowed thinking, fatigue, weakness, feeling worthless and difficulty concentrating. Treatment may include medications and psychotherapy. However, certain dietary supplements may also be helpful for relieving and managing symptoms of depression.
Omega-3 Fatty Acids
Omega-3 fatty acids are essential fats that your body requires, but cannot produce. These fats play an important role in normal brain function and proper growth and development. According to MayoClinic.com, omega-3 supplements or food sources may help relieve symptoms of depression. Good dietary sources include cold-water fish and fatty fish, such as salmon and sardines. Other good sources include flaxseed, flaxseed oil, hemp seeds and walnuts.
St.John's Wort
St. John's wort, also known as Hypercium perforatum, is an herb that may be effective in relieving mild to moderate depression symptoms. According to MayoClinic.com, this herb is not approved by the Food and Drug Administration for depression treatment in the United States, and therefore is considered a supplement. However, it is approved for depression treatment in Europe. You can consult your doctor to see if this herb may be of benefit to you.
SAMe
S-adenosylmethionine, also called SAMe, is a manufactured form of a naturally occurring chemical in your body. In the United States, it has not been approved for depression treatment, according to MayoClinic.com. Therefore, this product is considered to be a supplement only. However, it is used in Europe in the form of a prescription drug for depression.
Vitamin B6
Vitamin B6 may play a helpful role in reducing symptoms of depression in women with premenstrual syndrome, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center. Research evidence is mixed and more studies are required to establish any benefit. You can check with your doctor to see if this supplement may be of benefit to you. In addition to a supplement form, you can increase your intake of this vitamin through dietary sources. Good choices include beans, meat, poultry, fortified whole grains and fish.
