Depression

Depression and Nutritional Strategies

1. Caffeine- more than 3 cups a day can increase anxiety, and affect sleep. the stimulant effects can also interfere with important nutrients.
2. Alcohol - Watch out, the first glass acts as a stimulant, but alcohol is actually a sedative and a depressant, some of us drink far too much without even realising. Alcohol causes a deficiency in Vitamin C, and B group vitamins, it interferes with medication and destroys brain cells. Alcohol may give us a quick fix, but in the end it leaves us more depressed and dependent.
3. Sugar and refined carbohydrates- Refined sugars create moods swings, by disrupting our blood sugar levels and creating a see- saw effect of mood and energy. Ensure to eat low GI carbohydrates and include protein or good fats to stabilise moods and hunger pangs.
4. Water - Our number 1 nutrient, and all of us agree natures best anti-depressant. Your body loses 1-5 litres of water a day, if you are feeling low, think about your water intake, are you consistently drinking 2 litres of water a day?
5. Omega 3 and Omega 6 oils, studies show that women with a high intake of Omega 3 had a lower rate of depression. We recommend flaxseed oil or Omega 3 fish oil.
6. Vitamin C - Essential for the immune system which is usually poor in depressed people. It also helps improve hormone balance and is a powerful anti-oxidant.
7. B vitamins - are not readily stored so you need a constant supply from your diet. Many nutritional deficiencies mimick depression, so getting all your nutrients in daily can make a huge difference in the way you feel.