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Natural Ways to Get Rid of Depression

Depression affects an estimated 17 million Americans every year. The disorder affects the old and the young, and is experienced by males and females alike. Common symptoms include chronic fatigue, sleep disturbances, changes in appetite, headaches, irritability and quickness to anger. The good news is that the condition is treatable, and there are even natural ways to get rid of depression. Read on for some suggestions.

  1. Take Vitamins

    • Depression often is linked to B-vitamin deficiencies. Taking a daily B-complex vitamin is recommended to boost folic acid levels. Taking zinc is also recommended.

    Helpful Herbs

    • St. John's wort is one natural remedy used to treat depression. Siberian ginseng, ginger, ginkgo Biloba, licorice root and peppermint may also be helpful.

    Dietary Recommendations

    • To ease nervousness, consume more complex carbohydrates. To lift your spirits, try eating foods that contain high amounts of tryptophan and protein, such as turkey and salmon. Avoid products containing aspartame, such as diet soda, as it may block the formation of serotonin and cause headaches and insomnia.

    Exercise with Music

    • During vigorous exercise, feel-good chemicals are produced by the brain. Music can have powerful effects on mood, so combining uplifting music with exercise may be especially beneficial

    Light Therapy

    • Depression is often brought on by changes in season and by lack of sunlight. Light therapy helps to boost the body's natural melatonin production. Melatonin is a natural chemical the body needs to help prevent depression. Staying in brightly it rooms on dark and dreary days and using high-output fluorescent lighting in your home may help alleviate seasonal depression.

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