3 ways to beat depression naturally

(NaturalHealth365) Looking for a natural treatment for depression?  Well, get ready for some great news.  Because we have 3 highly effective alternatives to toxic medication.

We know that millions of Americans deal with depression on a regular basis. According to the National Survey on Drug Use and Health, 6.7% of U.S. adults have faced a major depressive disorder in the past year and the problem is worldwide.

A failed system: Conventional medicine is too quick to offer antidepressant medication as the go-to treatment for depression.  However, many of these drugs bring a range of harmful and dangerous side effects. The truth is there are many natural ways to combat depression. The following are three of the most effective:

Turmeric (curcumin) shown to be a natural treatment for depression without negative side effects

Turmeric is a delicious spice found in Indian and Asian cooking. It is also extremely beneficial when used therapeutically for depression.

Studies have found that turmeric, also referred to as curcumin, can stop depression as effectively as antidepressant drugs – and without the negative and harmful side effects often associated with them. Researchers believe that it inhibits the depression enzyme monoamine oxidase. Curcumin also boosts the neurotransmitters serotonin and dopamine, which help to reduce depression as well as anxiety.

In contrast, common pharmaceutical medications like Prozac can cause side effects like sleep disturbances, anxiety, schizophrenic behavior and suicidal ideation.

The study found that using 500 mg of standardized, bioavailable curcumin extract twice per day was effective against major depressive disorder. Absorption is enhanced by taking it with healthy fats like avocado, olive oil or coconut oil.

Niacin (vitamin B3) has been easing depression successfully for decades

Niacin, also known as vitamin B3, is another potent depression and anxiety cure. It has been studied extensively by Abram Hoffer, M.D., Ph.D. and has been found to be safe, affordable and highly effective against depression and other mental disorders.

Vitamin B3 is also effective against anxiety, alcoholism, and even schizophrenia. Those with depression should strongly consider avoiding the hazards of antidepressant side effects in favor of a natural cure like niacin:

Finally, one of the top depression cures that’s readily available to anyone is a healthy diet. It is as simple as making the proper choices every week at the grocery store.

Treatment for depression through diet can be accomplished by favoring foods high in polyphenols. These compounds are prevalent in plant foods and are effective in reducing oxidative stress and improving synaptic plasticity in the brain.

A 2012 study published in the journal Nutritional Neuroscience showed showed that polyphenols improved cognitive functioning as well as psychiatric disorders like depression.  A British Journal of Health Psychology study found that diets high in fruits and vegetables improved both mood and brain functioning.

Foods richest in polyphenols include blueberries, blackberries, flax seeds, hazelnuts, dark chocolate and herbal teas. Foods high in omega 3s such as oily fish, nuts, flaxseed oil, and legumes are also effective against depression. Avoiding gluten, artificial ingredients and processed foods will boost your mood and promotes clarity of thought.

So, as you can see, a natural treatment for depression is not only safe and effective but, it’s available to all of us now.  If you suffer from depression, don’t become a victim of poor medical advice.  Work with a qualified healthcare provider (if needed) – who appreciates the power of nutrition to heal the body.

References:

http://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/statistics/prevalence/major-depression-among-adults.shtml

http://www.samhsa.gov/data/sites/default/files/NSDUH-FRR1-2014/NSDUH-FRR1-2014.htm

http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/23832433

http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2820028

http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/22471448

http://www.naturalhealth365.com/how-to-beat-depression-polyphenols-1474.html

http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3355196

http://pcrm.org/health/medNews/healthful-diet-improves-mood