Millions of Americans deal with depression today. In many cases we are depressed because we do not get our daily dose of omega three oils and the foods we eat may actually contribute to depression rather than help prevent it. It is estimated that we need 1 tablespoon of flax oil or other omega three oil each day. Do you get yours? If not, how many years behind are you? Making up for lost time by being diligent about getting your daily dose of omega three oils may help prevent depression and the need for drugs later.
There are many other things you can do to help prevent this debilitating illness. You can make sure you eat fiber rich foods like fruits, vegetables and whole grains (however wheat gluten may add to depression, so for whole grains try spelt breads and brown rice, etc). Take a good multivitamin – nutrient deficiencies may cause depression. Make sure your daily vitamins contain: folic acid, zinc, B6 and B12, calcium, magnesium, vitamins C and E. Many multivitamins do not contain some of these extras, so you may want to purchase those separately. Reduce your sugar intake, your alcohol intake and don’t smoke. I know – taking those three indulgences away seems like it might make you depressed in itself! Give it time, it will work.
Some experts recommend St. John’s Wort, 5-hydroxytroptophan (5-HTP) and if you are over fifty – Ginkgo Balboa. Virtually all health experts recommend reducing your stress (easier said than done), thinking positively and getting 30 minutes of exercise three times a week.
Remember that you should see your doctor before making any changes to your current prescription drug intake. Think how good we can feel if we take care of ourselves!