Depression/Anxiety

Suggestions & Goals

Depression: Get plenty of outdoor exercise.  Exercise stimulates the body to produce serotonin and endorphins, which are chemicals in the brain (neurotransmitters) that help depression. Food allergies can cause depression and should be checked for through a blood test, and/or an elimination diet.  Also check for heavy metals through a hair analysis.  Hypothyroidism and hypoglycemia can be causes and/or aggravating factors, check for yeast overgrowth and other digestive problems.  Beware of some prescription drugs which may cause depression such as antihistamines, anti-hypertensives, anti-inflammatory agents, birth-control pills, corticosteroids, tranquilizers, and sedatives.

As for anxiety, many research studies have also found an improvement in symptoms with increased physical activity, especially mindful movement, such as yoga, tai chi and qigong. Eating meat, fish and beans will provide l-lysine, an important amino acid shown to improve symptoms (or use supplement). Vitamin D from sunlight, lavender pure essential oil, and chamomile tea – work wonders!