Anxiety & Depression Dietary Deficiencies

In 2006, a survey taken by the Centers for Disease Control showed as many as 15 percent of the United States population reported symptoms of depression, while 11 percent reported symptoms of anxiety. Both disorders are linked to certain neurotransmitter imbalances in the brain. Dietary deficiencies affect the body's ability to metabolize needed nutrients, and they may contribute to neurotransmitter imbalances.

Identification

• Dietary deficiencies can affect how the brain functions as well as impact normal body function. After a while, signs of wear and tear can appear within the mental make-up of an individual. Anxiety and depression lead to a reduced quality of life that can affect home, work and social relationships. A lack of energy, nervousness, a lack of interest in everyday life and, in some cases, aches and pains, accompany these conditions. Dietary deficiencies are triggered by missing vitamins and minerals as well as poor dietary habits.

Causes

• A number of factors can contribute to the effects dietary deficiencies have on anxiety and depression. Stress, an ever-present aspect of living, can worsen a person's mental status when dietary deficiencies are present. A lack of exercise prevents the body from metabolizing available nutrients and lessens metabolism overall. Individuals with a family history of anxiety and depression may be genetically predisposed to developing certain dietary deficiencies.

Neurotransmitters

• Chemical imbalances in the brain are linked to symptoms of anxiety and depression. Neurotransmitters are the chemicals in the brain that regulate mood and behavior. A lack of certain nutrients can cause adverse effects on the chemical processes in the brain. Serotonin, norepinehphrine and dopamine are the main neurotransmitters affected in cases of anxiety and depression. Unless these chemicals appear in certain amounts, mental disorders are likely. Proper nutrition provides the materials needed for the body to manufacture these chemicals.

Vitamins and Minerals

• A healthy metabolism requires the presence of certain vitamins and minerals. Processes involved in metabolizing carbohydrates, fats and proteins require a steady balance of both. The B vitamins, in particular, are necessary for normal nervous-system function. Deficiencies in vitamins B1, B2, B3, B5, B6 and B12 have been linked to depression symptoms. Medications like antibiotics and oral contraceptives can prevent proper absorption of vitamins. Mineral deficiencies linked to anxiety and depression include folate, calcium, magnesium, selenium and zinc.

Diet

• Dietary intake plays a big role in providing the needed materials for healthy brain function. Many of the nutrients in a balanced diet are precursors of neurotransmitter chemicals. Tyrosine is an amino acid used to manufacture dopamine and norepinephrine. Diets lacking in dairy products and meats may contribute to a tyrosine deficiency in the body. Meals that don't include both carbohydrates and proteins may prevent proper absorption of tryptophan, which is another precursor mineral. Diets that incorporate little to no fat content have been linked to anxiety and depression, as fat is needed for the proper absorption of vitamins and minerals.