Depression Helpful Natural Supplements and Treatments OVERVIEW Depression is an emotional state with symptoms including persistent feelings of hopelessness, dejection, poor concentration, lack of energy and motivation, inability to sleep, and at the extreme, suicidal thoughts. Depression can be caused by hormonal imbalance, nervous system disorders, infection, medications, poor diet or food allergies, genetics (hereditary), or cancer. Mild depression may last for only a day or two, while major depression may last many months or years. Women are much more likely to suffer from depression than men. SUPPLEMENTS FOR DEPRESSION There are many natural supplements that can help with depression. Consult with your healthcare provider to see which of the following supplements may be appropriate for you. PLEASE NOTE: It is very important to make sure that supplements do not interfere with your medications or an existing health condition. Vitamins & Minerals Folic Acid – This B-vitamin seems to help people with depression who are also taking a prescription antidepressant. Less Helpful: inositol, B6, B12. Other Supplements 5-HTP – 5-HTP is the first step in the conversion of the amino acid, L-tryptophan, to serotonin, an inhibitory neurotransmitter. Further conversion leads to melatonin. Research shows that 5-HTP can be as effective as some prescription antidepressants. Acetyl-L-Carnitine – ALC is a special form of the vitamin-like substance, L-carnitine. It has shown promise with depression in elderly people. DHEA – DHEA is a steroid hormone that can be converted to other hormones, including estrogen and testosterone. It is produced in the body from cholesterol via pregnenolone. Some depressed people may benefit from its use, while others may find that it makes their depression worse. Omega-3 Fatty Acids – Omega-3 essential fatty acids (EFAs) are precursors of the hormone-like eicosanoids. Fish oil is the best source of the omega-3s (DHA & EPA). Omega-3 fatty acids help with depression by themselves, or when combined with prescription antidepressants. Phenylalanine – L-Phenylalanine is classified as an essential amino acid. It can be converted to tyrosine, which in turn is converted to the excitatory catecholamine neurotransmitters (dopa, dopamine, norepinephrine, epinephrine). The catecholamines can act as mood elevators. SAMe – SAMe is the first metabolite of the essential amino acid, L-methionine. Part of its effect on depression may be due to SAMe's ability to raise catecholamine levels. Tryptophan – Tryptophan is classified as an essential amino acid. It can be converted into several substances, including the inhibitory neurotransmitter, serotonin. Serotonin is then converted to the hormone, melatonin. Tryptophan may be able to increase the effectiveness of prescription antidepressants. Less Helpful: phosphatidylserine, tyrosine. Herbs St. John's Wort – St. John's Wort is native to subtropical and temperate regions worldwide, including Europe, western Asian, and northern Africa. The plant was named after St. John the Baptist, because its flowers bloom around the time of his birth (June 24th). For many centuries, the plant's flowers were used to heal wounds, and to treat depression, anxiety, and insomnia. Research shows that St. John's Wort can be as effective for depression as most prescription medications. Less Helpful: ginkgo biloba. COMMENTS Exercise, especially outdoors, may be the answer for mild depression. Major depression may require psychotherapy, antidepressants, and possibly ECT (electroconvulsive therapy). Biofeedback, meditation, and yoga, may also help. Avoid junk food, alcohol, caffeine, and nicotine, and instead follow a natural, nutritionally balanced diet. References Jellin, JM, editor. Natural Medicines Comprehensive Database, 2007. Pillepich, JA. The Nutraceutical Reference Guide, 2005. FOR DEPRESSION CONSIDER THESE SUPPLEMENTS: ● Brain Mood (5-HTP, St. John's Wort) ● Brain Energy (Phenylalanine, Tyrosine) ● DHEA 25 mg ● DHEA 50 mg ● Omega-3 Fatty Acids ● Tryptophan The products and the claims made about specific products on or through this site have not been evaluated by the United States Food and Drug Administration and are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent disease. The information provided on this site is for informational purposes only and is not intended as a substitute for advice from your physician or other health care professionals or any information contained on or in any product label or packaging. You should not use the information on this site for diagnosis or treatment of any health problem or for prescription of any medication or other treatment. You should consult with a healthcare professional before starting any diet, exercise or supplementation program, before taking any medication, or if you have or suspect you might have a health problem. Your health is our major concern. * * * * * * Total Health Nutrients is a multi-faceted company, with operations in New York and New Jersey. We provide both services and products, such as: Nutritional Supplements: We carry the highest quality supplements to speed up your healing process. They were developed to contain the right proportions of vitamins, minerals, and essential fatty acids, without danger of toxic build-up and without dangerous side effects. Each ingredient is selected in consideration of its absorbability, competitive relationship with other nutrients, allergenic potential, and long-term safety. Also, our supplements are manufactured in a cGMP (current Good Manufacturing Practices) facility, ensuring you always get a pure product that meets label potency. 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