Will nutrition and supplements reduce my depression?

Yes: Certain foods contain serotonin like st. Johns wart. Also, many manic patients had low lithium levels. That is why lithium helps many patients with manic depression. Other foods like chocolate and caffeine can raise your endorphin levels making you feel happier.

Yes: The answer is yes, if there is a nutritional relationship to the depression. The body's ability to make neuro- transmitters is also related to a adequate balanced diet. Adequate b vitamins, minerals and Amino Acids can be of some benefit and can be part of a more comprehensive program to address this concern.

Yes: Many supplements have been proven to help depression, with benefits comparable to drugs. I have had great success with fish oil, 5-htp & same. Herbs like st. John's wort & ashwagandha can help, as can b vits. & low-dose lithium. Avoiding unhealthy foods & food allergens may help (for example, gluten allergy can cause depression). Nothing works for everyone & professional guidance may be helpful.

No: In general, the illness of major depressive disorder is not helped by nutrition directly but good nutrition is important for general health and can contribute to certain symptoms seen in people with and without depression. Some supplements are actually drugs, for example st johns wort and same. These medications can treat major depressive disorder. Most supplements have no direct effect.

Yes: If your depression is possibly caused by a nutritional deficiency or related to de-conditioning from malnutrition, then proper nutrition and supplements may help with depressive symptoms. It would be wise to correct any nutritive issues and consider supplements but remember that true depressive syndrome should be addressed by a medical professional and/or therapist as well.

Useful adjuncts: There's no magic. Serious depression usually requires some talk / insight / learning new behaviors and attitudes, and often some medication. General health measures are important. Intensive exercise is a wonderful gift to give yourself. Saint John's Wort is an evidence-based nutritional supplement for depression. If you know an evidence-based holist in your community, get with him/her.