Beating Depression Naturally

Twenty-five percent of Americans will suffer from depression or similar mood disorder at any given time. That means at least one in eight will experience depression at some point in life. Depression is normal after the death of a loved one, divorce, or life-changing accident, but it can be serious if it is a prolonged bout without a clear reason since it is the leading cause of suicide.

Several factors can contribute to depression. Eating large amounts of processed foods, a person may not receive enough nutrients for the body to maintain a healthy state of mind. This poor diet leads to issues with brain function and the nervous system. Residues on foods from pesticides and additives like sugar can also have negative effects on the mind and body. Food allergies can cause depression. After consuming wheat, people who are allergic to it often report depression-like symptoms.

Since hormone regulation plays a big role in depression, stress, toxins, poor diet, and exercise can affect the symptoms of depression. Getting enough sleep without too much, one needs to aim for eight to ten hours of restful sleep each night. Changes in the amount can change the body's natural rhythm affecting your mood. Enough sleep and exercise can alleviate stress and depression. By releasing endorphins, exercise makes you feel good. Without exercise, you are 30% more likely to suffer from depression.

No matter the cause, if you are depressed, you should seek treatment. Although medical doctors will prescribe drugs (and often these may be necessary), there are natural medications that can help. Eating well and exercising, you can use these natural remedies long term. With few side effects, St. John's Wort treats depression, apathy, sleep disturbances, anorexia, and feelings of worthlessness. Detoxifying your body and supplying more blood to the brain, gingko increases circulation. Depression is often related to decrease serotonin levels, so 5-HTP can help by raising those levels, which in turn raise endorphins, and neurotransmitters that the brain needs.

Since vitamin deficits can play a role in mood difficulties, a vitamin and mineral regiment can be helpful. Both vitamin B6 and folic acid deficiencies have been linked to depression and other mood issues. A lack of B12 is known to cause postpartum depression. Lacking vitamin C, you will also lack serotonin. Low magnesium can cause poor attention, memory loss, fear, restlessness, insomnia, tic, cramps, and dizziness. Supplementing vitamins and minerals can help you to avoid depression.

Eating a well balanced diet with at least 2 1/2 cups of vegetables, 2 cups of fruits, three ounces of whole grains, 48 oz of milk, you should avoid saturated fats. Keep unsaturated fats to no more than 30% and saturated fats less than 10% of your total calories. Choose lean meat and low or fat-free products. Keeping alcohol to a minimum, rely mostly on fiber-rich fruits, vegetables and whole grains in your diet.

Choosing an activity that you enjoy, try to exercise at least twenty minutes a day three days a week. Not only does this flush your system of toxins, it will increase levels of neurotransmitters in the brain that make you feel good, banishing depression

Common Herbs And Some Specific Uses

Caraway

The part of this to use is the seeds. It is a calming herb that will help to ease flatulence. This use is particularly helpful in children. It also stimulates the appetite and because it is also an astringent it will help laryngitis, bronchitis and bronchial asthma.

Cascara Sagrada

Also known as Sacred Bark, Chittem Bark, and Cascara. The part to use is the bark after aging. Best use is for chronic constipation.

Catnip

Also known as Catmint and Catnep. This is a traditional cold and flu treatment. Can also use it to drive your cat crazy!

Cayenne

Also known as Capsicum, Chili or Chili Pepper, Hot Pepper and Tabasco Pepper. This is an effective treatment for pleurisy, kidney problems, skin and colds.

Celery Seeds

Use dried ripe fruits to use as an anti-inflammatory, anti-rheumatic, diuretic or anti-spasmodic. It is great for treating rheumatism, arthritis and gout.

Beating Depression Naturally

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