Treating Depression Naturally

Treating Depression NaturallyThe Holistic ApproachDepressionExercise has been show to relieve symptoms of depression by raising dopamine levels and improving mood.

People with good stress management skills and a good support system have been shown to have lower rates of depression when compared to those who dont.

Depression

It is important to consider a more holistic approach towards the treatment of depression to provide clients with free, cost effective options in addition to medications. These approaches are not exclusive to the treatment of mood disorders but can also help improve overall health.

Depression and the BrainClinical depression is linked to the following neurotransmitters:

Serotonin

Dopamine

Norepinephrine

Dopamine Dopamine plays a big role in :

Behavior CognitionMotivation/rewardSleepMood Attention/ Learning

Serotonin

Serotonin contributes to feelings of well being, appetite, mood regulation and sleep.

It helps combat feelings of depression and anxiety.

Norepinephrine Helps with :

Focus

Attention

Mood

The Dietary Approach

Omega-3-Fatty Acids Omega-3 fatty acids, usually from fish oil, have been shown to reduce inflammation, boost mood and help prevent chronic disease.

Long-chain omega-3 fatty acids are EPA and DHA. They are found in fish and shellfish.

Short-chain omega-3 fatty acids are ALA and are found in plants.

FlaxseedFlaxseeds are rich in alpha linolenic acid (ALA), the precursor to eicosapentaenoic acid or EPA.

ALA can be converted to EPA

This conversion depends on the presence and activity of an enzyme called delta-6-destaurase. The ability for the conversion to take place depends on how active this enzyme is.

Delta-6-desaturase does not work in the presence of diabetes, or a diet high in saturated fat or alcohol consumption.

More flaxseeds have to be consumed to get the same benefits as the omega-3 fatty acids found in cold water fish and fish oil supplements.Flaxseed Pros

Good option for vegetarians and vegan who do not eat animal products

Can be sprinkled in smoothies, over pasta or saladsCons

Have to eat more to get the same benefits from EPA and DHA

It is difficult for ALA to be converted to EPA and DHA in the body.

In most people less than 1% of ALA is converted. Fish People who eat baked or broiled fish have more gray matter than those who dont.

Fatty acids found in fish increase blood flow to the brain and can reduce risk of dementia and depression.

Fish Oil

DHA is one of the most common fatty acid in the brain.

People who have depression have low levels of DHA and EPA.

Those eating fish at least once a week were much less likely to develop Alzheimer's disease.Fish and Fish OilPros

Heart Healthy Fats

Anti-inflammatory

Support brain function and improves nerve transmission

Can take fish oil supplements if you dont like fishCons

Cant take if you are taking blood thinners.

Possible PCB and mercury contamination.

Reading the Labels

What are you really looking for?

Consumer Labs is a 3rd party lab that test the quality of supplements.

Only 11 Fish Oil Supplements passed their rigorous testing.Exercise

Exercise and the brainIncrease levels of endorphins and dopamine.

Improves memory and mental acuity

Increases levels of nerve cell growth factor (BDNF), which promotes the health of nerve cells.

Stress Managment

Stress and the Brain

It decreases your ability to remember and learn new information.

Chronic stress produces hormones that overload the brain and kill brain cells.Support System

Support SystemSupport systems help counteract the effects of stress.

Increase sense of well being.

Provide an outlet for negative feelings.

The EndDr. Blessing Anyatonwu D.C., M.S.www.earnestholistichealth.com512- 481- 2682

Empower. Educate. Engage.