Cure Depression Without Drugs

New research says antidepressant drugs are no better than sugar pills for treating mild to moderate depression. (And they may also have undesirable side effects.) If you’re already on medication for depression, try these natural means to rebalance your brain chemistry. Then ask you doctor how to taper off the meds.

Get some exercise most days of the week. Research shows that exercise of any kind is as good as psychotherapy or antidepressants for treating depression. Exercise can increase feel-good brain chemicals like serotonin and endorphins and reduce stress and anxiety. Walk, swim, run, bike, do yoga or dance.

Get enough vitamin D. Supplemental vitamin D has been shown to improve mood in older people who aren’t getting enough in their diets or from sunshine. While sunlight can help, you may need more than the sun can provide. Take 1,000-2,000 IU a day. Plus, get your blood level of 25(OH)D level checked. It should be above 35 ng/mL (87 nM/L).

Take fish oil. The omega-3 fatty acids found in salmon and sardines can help stabilize your mood. Supplemental fish oil can ease depression, especially bipolar disorder (manic depression). It’s safe to take with medications. Research has used 1,000-2,000 mg a day.

Try melatonin. If you have sleep problems or seasonal affective disorder (SAD), take 1-3 mg a day of melatonin, a hormone that helps to correct your body’s internal “clock.” Night owls need to take it in the afternoon or evening, while morning larks (people who wake up too early) should take it in the morning. Melatonin is also affected by light exposure, so try to minimize exposure to bright light at night.

Avoid excessive alcohol, sugar and caffeine. Consuming too much of any of these three can lead to depression and anxiety. 

Take a multi-vitamin. Lots of nutrients are involved in neurotransmitter production. They include most of the Bs, especially folate, B6 and B12. Cover your bases with a good multi-vitamin-mineral supplement.

Try ginkgo. Gingko biloba is helpful in relieving depression, especially in the elderly who suffer reduced blood flow to the brain, and can enhance other depression treatments. Studies have used 80 mg of ginkgo extract three times a day.

The Anti-Aging Bottom Line: If you think you are depressed, it's best to talk with your doctor. These nutritional supplements may help to prevent depression on their own, and they can also be used safely with prescription antidepressants.

QUICK TIP: Jean Carper reports on research that has suggests fish oil may help prevent suicide. Learn More

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Written exclusively for Stop Aging Now, the authority on anti-aging research, anti-aging nutrition, and anti-aging supplements.