Depression Supplements
Discover herbal supplements for depression
Depression is a serious condition that affects a large number of people of all ages. Approximately 9.5% of the adult U.S. population in any given year struggles with depressive disorders. Children aren't immune, either—preschool children have been identified as the fastest-growing patient group for antidepressant medication.
As depression can lead to a weakened immune system and physical disease, it is critical for a person with depression to receive treatment. Many people with depression aren't willing to take prescription medication for depression because of its prohibitive costs, the uncomfortable side effects or for other reasons. As an alternative, researchers have developed over-the-counter supplements for depression that are proven options for dealing with the condition.
Benefits and Indications
There are a number of ingredients in natural depression supplements that can help to reduce the effects of depression. Some of the effective components are:
- Vitamin B9, or folate. Low levels of folate can contribute to depression—medical research has identified folate as a positive influence on moods.
- Omega-3 fatty acids. Deficiencies in Omega-3 fatty acids or an imbalance of Omega-3 to Omega-6 fatty acids has been associated with fatigue, memory problems, mood swings and depression.
- S-Adenosinemethionine, also known as SAMe. SAMe has been shown to boost the levels of serotonin in the brain, which has a positive impact on the symptoms of depression.
- Tryptophan. The amino acid tryptophan, in combination with other depression herbs and ingredients, has proven effective in increasing serotonin levels.
- Selenium. A recent study identified selenium as a possible depression treatment. Study participants who consumed a diet with high selenium content reported feeling less depressed after just five weeks on the diet.
- St Johns Wort. One of the best-known herbal supplements for depression, St. John's Wort helps to reduce the feelings of sadness, fatigue and insomnia that are common with depression.
Side Effects and Warnings
Since the ingredients in depression supplements may interact with prescription medication for depression, it is imperative to check with a healthcare provider before starting on depression supplements if you currently take other depression medication.
Pregnant or nursing women should exercise extreme caution with depression supplements. In addition, depression supplements should not be given to children.
Some ingredients in depression supplements may increase sensitivity to the sun, so increased use of sunblock or the overall avoidance of strong sunlight is suggested.
It is always a good idea to talk with your healthcare provider before beginning to take supplements for depression.
