Depression and Food Deficiencies

The brain, the body and our health are not isolated factors. It is very productive to look at scientific findings regarding vitamin deficiencies in people suffering from depression.

Inositol

Inositol found in lecithin has been succesfully used to treat depression

Selenium

Selenium has been used to cure dpression. It is found in brasil nuts, garlic and shellfish.

Tryptophan

The amino acid tryptophan is required by the body to produce serotonin. It is possible that low serotonin levels could lead to depression.

Folate

It appears that depressed people have been found to be deficient in folate (Vitamin B12), more than any other nutrient. Elevated homocysteine levels are the best indicator of a folate deficiency.

Omega 3 Fatty Acids

Did you know that the brain is made up of 30% fat? So much for the low fat diets people! Way off the mark there. Omega 3 as you know is found in fish oils, and some argue that cold pressed flaxseed oil contains an even higher quality blend of this EFA. You need these if your brain is to produce normal levels of seratonin, melatonin and dopamine - all related to mood, sleep and wakefulness. You need omega 6 oils from extra virgin olive oil, but if the omega 3 levels are low in comparision it could result in depression.

Tyrosine

Tyrosine is a precursor to serotonin, melatonin, melanin, adrenalin, noradrenalin, T3 and T4. All of these things are related to metabolism and mood. Tyrosine is cheap, and more to the point you can't take much or you'll end up punching people. 100mg a day is a therapeutic dose, but already potent.

Ginkgo Biloba

Ginkgo biloba stimulates blood fow to the head. In response the ductless glands; adrenal, pituitary, hypophthalmus and perhaps the thyroid, work better. This brings about a hormone increase and balance which solves many psychological disorders.

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