One of the worse effects of recession is not just soaring unemployment rates, but also plummeting moods. Statistics indicate that approximately a whopping 15 million people or 7 percent of the adult American population suffer from some form of major depressive disorder. There are several drugs available to cater to this vast affected population, most notably Prozac, Paxil, and Effexor. In some cases however, people do not react immediately to these drugs, and a new study indicates that some nutritional supplements such as vitamin D and omega-3 fatty acids can boost the effectiveness of these antidepressants.
- Fish Oil – It’s really no secret that fish oil is loaded with omega-3 fatty acids, which according to medical experts are known for their optimal health benefits. Although most Americans do get a fair share of omega-6 fatty acids, they fall short of omega-3s, which are known anti-inflammatory traits and ability o prevent heart disease. It is easy to get a rich intake of omega-3s even with simple foods such as cold-water fish, and not getting enough could affect your nerve signals. When your brain isn’t functioning properly, you may feel depressed resulting in the onset of anxiety.
- Vitamin D – People and medical experts around the world swear by this essential vitamin’s ability to help maintain healthy teeth and bones. And some people suffering from depression say that Vitamin D even fends off depression. Although it is unclear how exactly this vitamin eases depression, some conjecture that it is due to vitamin D deficiencies. And in terms of numbers, a concerning three-quarters of U.S. teens and adults lack this crucial vitamin.
- Turmeric – Not only an essential seasoning for myriad tantalizing curry dishes and American yellow mustard, but cutting edge research proves that curcumin—one of three components in turmeric is shown to be a powerful natural antidepressant. Further, it also accelerates the effects of fluoxetine (Prozac) and desipramine (Norpramin), works miraculously to relieve acute anxiety, and heals the damage caused by heavy-metal toxins.
- Magnesium – Contrary to popular belief, magnesium isn’t just a placebo, but new research reveals that over the counter magnesium tablets can significantly improve depression within a couple of weeks. This small study revealed that taking magnesium supplements over and above their prescribed antidepressant medication could greatly improve their condition. If you can’t get your hands on magnesium dietary supplements, you’re in luck because there are several magnesium rich foods that are easily accessible including brown rice, spinach, lima beans and dark chocolate for desert of course.
- Roseroot Herb – Sometimes referred to as Rhodiola rose, this herb has been used in traditional European medicine for over 3000 years, and now recent studies indicate that it could potentially treat depression. These studies suggest that roseroot can enhance your mood by stimulating certain receptors in the brain such as serotonin and dopamine that are involved with mood regulation. Apart from helping those suffering from depression, roseroot also helps strengthen the nervous system, aids in weight loss, increases sexual function and boosts stamina.
Depression is both debilitating and a common disease that affects more than 19 million Americans each year. What’s more worrying is the fact that 70 percent or more patients do not respond completely to therapy and conventional antidepressants. The aforementioned natural antidepressants can boost the effectiveness of traditional antidepressants, and since they are Organic, there’s no harm in giving them a shot to find out which ones works best for you.
