Depression Supplements
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Depression Supplements
Certain nutrients and dietary supplements have been associated with depression, including:

Depression which is not related to external events may be due to something as simple as poor methylation.

What’s methylation got to do with Depression and/or anxiety?

Well, lots really! If your body is deficient in methylating agents it cannot effectively convert homocysteine into the harmless amino acid methionine. Slow methylation caused by homocysteine results in inactive serotonin which cannot effectively work in the brain. This in turn leads to depression.

The most effective natural methylating substance currently known to science is SAMe which is found in all human cells. It is even more natural than the well known herbal antidepressants such as St John’s wort, and kava kava…and it is much more effective.

Depression Supplements
Many Doctors say SAMe is as effective, maybe more effective than prescription antidepressants but with none of the side effects. Because of the important role methylation plays in depression and anxiety a natural ‘antidepressant’ must have SAMe as a key ingredient.

Some studies suggest that the dietary supplement SAMe may be just as effective as tricyclic antidepressants for treating depression, but with fewer side effects. SAMe appears to boost serotonin levels in the brain, but further research investigating the mechanism of action (how it works), safety, and effectiveness of SAMe for depression is warranted.

Depression Supplements
Omega-3 fatty acids

Essential fatty acids, such as omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids play a crucial role in the function of brain chemicals, particularly serotonin and dopamine. Studies have shown that low levels of omega-3 fatty acids (found in cold-water fish such as Tuna and Hoki), or a high ratio of omega-6 fatty acids (found in certain vegetable oils, such as corn and soybean oils) to omega-3 fatty acids, may be associated with depression. A typical American diet is high in omega-6 compared to omega-3 fatty acids. Eating foods rich in omega-3 fatty acids on a regular basis helps maintain an appropriate balance of omega-6 to omega-3 fatty acids, and although unproven, restoring this balance may help with feelings and symptoms of depression.

Depression Supplements
Tryptophan

Tryptophan is an amino acid involved in the production of serotonin. Studies suggest that tryptophan depletion can lead to diminished serotonin levels, and in some cases, may increase a person's susceptibility to depression. Some research indicates that tryptophan, together with tricyclic medications, may produce better results than the medication alone. Tryptophan supplementation alone may not be enough to reduce symptoms of depression. However, while research results are intriguing, tryptophan use has been associated with the development of serious conditions such as liver and brain toxicity, and with eosinophilic myalgia syndrome (EMS), a potentially fatal disorder that affects the skin, blood, muscles, and organs. (An outbreak of EMS caused by a contaminated batch of tryptophan led to the removal of this supplement from the United States market in 1989.) In addition, given the possibility of adverse interactions, tryptophan should not be used in conjunction with MAOIs or SSRIs.

Depression Supplements
5-Hydroxytryptophan (5-HTP)

Some studies suggest that a by-product of tryptophan known as 5-HTP may be as effective as SSRIs and tricyclic antidepressants in treating depression, but with fewer side effects. As with tryptophan, EMS has been reported in 10 people taking 5-HTP. Further research is necessary to determine whether supplementation with 5-HTP is safe and effective for the treatment of depression.

Depression Supplements
Selenium

Some reports indicate that the mineral selenium, found in wheat germ, brewer's yeast, liver, fish, shellfish, garlic, sunflower seeds, Brazil nuts, and grains, significantly affects mood. In one study of people with low levels of selenium, those who consumed a diet high in selenium reported decreased feelings of depression after 5 weeks.

Depression Supplements
Inositol

Inositol is a naturally occurring substance involved in the production of certain brain chemicals. In a few studies, levels of inositol were lower in the cerebrospinal fluid (fluid surrounding the brain and spinal column) of depressed people compared to healthy people. In addition, administration of inositol decreased signs of depression in two animal studies. Several small human studies suggest that inositol may be of value in the treatment of depression, particularly for those who do not respond to antidepressant medications. More clinical trials are necessary to draw definitive conclusions on this substance.

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