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Nutritional Needs for a Depressed Patient

Depression affects 13 to 20 million Americans every year. Depression is a whole-body illness, affecting emotional, physical and cognitive health. Nutrition and diet contribute significantly to depression through their affect on brain functioning and metabolism.

  1. Nutrition and Neurotransmitters

    • Several brain chemicals including dopamine/norepinephrine, GABA (gamma amino butyric acid) and serotonin regulate emotional functioning. When these chemicals are in balance we have more positive, balanced emotions. When these neurotransmitters are depleted depression or other dysfunctions result.

    Foods to Avoid

    • Some foods can disrupt the physiological processes involved in production of the neurotransmitters necessary for proper brain function. Artificial sweeteners can block the formation of serotonin. Foods high in saturated fats, such as fried foods and junk food reduce blood flow to the brain and throughout the body. Simple carbohydrates, or sugars, can trigger hypoglycemic episodes, which in turn contribute to depressed mood.

    Foods to Fight Depression

    • Certain nutrients are required for the maintenance of stable metabolism and brain chemistry. Complex carbohydrates, such as raw fruits and vegetables, soybean products, whole grains, and legumes minimize hypoglycemia. Protein, essential fatty acids and tryptophan, such as contained in salmon, white fish, and turkey, enhance production of the amino acids that are involved in neurotransmitter production. To maintain proper blood sugar levels do not skip meals and maintain a balanced diet.

    Nutritional Deficiencies and Depression

    • According to Webmd.com, depression has been linked to vitamin and mineral deficiencies including: Folic acid, folate (Vitamin B9), Vitamin B6, Vitamin B12, Omega-3 fatty acids, selenium, and Tryptophan.

    Allergies

    • According to many sources, including Alternativementalhealth.com, allergies can contribute to negative moods and depression. Try an "elimination diet" as described by Functionalmedicine.org to evaluate if food allergies contribute to your mood problems.

    Dietary Supplements

    • A variety of dietary supplements have been reported to help improve depression in some people. Dietary supplements that may enhance mood include: 5-Hydroxytrptophan (5-HTP), DHEA, S-Adenosinemethionine (SAMe), St. John's Wort, L-Tyrosine. Vitamin B-complex injections can be helpful even in severe depressions.

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