Depression Treatment: Can you eat your way to happiness?

The general consensus in the medical industry is that depression is caused by an imbalance of a neurotransmitter in the brain called serotonin. This would make it seem like you would be rid of depression if there were to be an influx of serotonin, but there is no scientific evidence that drug therapy really works. There have been numerous studies performed where scientists lowered serotonin levels to induce depression. The experiment failed while other studies found that dramatically increasing serotonin levels in the brain failed to relieve the patient all together. If this is the case, why do physicians continue to prescribe medications with that have extensive side effects causing mood swings, suicidal thoughts, eating disorders, to name a few. A good diet has always been a pertinent aspect of a human’s life. To stay in shape and have a healthy mind, eating right should always be considered. As the saying goes, “You are what you eat!” There are some foods that can actually beat depression, or atleast alleviate the symptoms. Many symptoms correlated with depression can be directly linked to vitamin and mineral deficiencies in the standard American diet. Poor nutrition often causes fatigue and mood swings. To recover or avoid a depressive episode, change your diet and boost your consumption of the following five foods! Fish oils: Contain omega-3 fatty acids. Research has shown that depressed people often lack a fatty acid known as EPA. Omega-3 fatty acids can also lower cholesterol and improve cardiovascular health. Get omega-3s through walnuts, flaxseed and oily fish like salmon or tuna. Brown Rice: A great source of vitamins B1, B3, and folic acid. It is also a low-glycemic food, which means it releases glucose into the bloodstream gradually. Brown rice also provides many of the trace minerals we need to function properly. It is a high-fiber food that maintains a healthy digestive system and lowers cholesterol. Brewer’s Yeast: Mix a thimbleful into any smoothie for your daily dose. Brewer’s Yeast has a wide assortment of vitamins and minerals in a small package, including 16 amino acids and 14 minerals. Whole-grain oats: Contain folic acid, pantothenic acid and vitamins B6 and B1. Oats help lower cholesterol. Other whole grains such as kamut, spelt and quinoa are also excellent choices for delivering brain-boosting nutrients and avoiding the pitfalls of refined grains such as white flour. Cabbage: Contains vitamin C and folic acid. Cabbage protects against stress, infection and heart disease, as well as many types of cancers, according to the American Association for Cancer Research. Cabbage is also a good source of blood-sugar-stabilizing fiber, and the raw juice of cabbage is a known cure for stomach ulcers. For more information on breakthrough depression treatments contact Smart Brain and Health.