Alternatives to Antidepressants

Looking At The Alternatives To Antidepressants

Let’s talk about natural alternatives to taking antidepressants. We can list the most popular alternatives as follows:

Addressing Chemical Imbalances

Zinc supplements – The brain is where zinc tends to be used and a lack of this vital mineral has been shown to result in mood swings, mental functions and even epilepsy. You can supplement your diet through eating more beans, nuts and seeds, as well as oysters.

Lithium supplements – There is already an established medical procedure for using lithium to treat bipolar disorders and other mood disorders. However the side effects can be more dangerous than with other supplements so care is needed. Dairy products, potatoes and eggs are all rich in lithium.

Magnesium supplements – Just as for zinc it is possible to show a link between magnesium deficiency and depression. Whole grains, seeds and beans are good sources.

Chromium picolinate – This is usually sold as a nutritional supplement. There were initial concerns over the safety of this compound but at the moment there is no health warning in place.

Dietary Solutions

Omega-3 fatty acids - Many health benefits have been claimed for this oil. Although there are suggestions that it could improve depression there is in fact no definite link. It is typically available as fish oil.

Low fructose diets - Some people have difficulty absorbing fructose in their intestines. These people can also show a higher score on a “Beck Depression Inventory” which is a good measure of depression. A diet which is low in fructose, fructans and sorbitol can help.

Tryptophan is a chemical which is associated with serotonin which in turn is a key element in antidepressant drugs. Foods rich in tryptophan include chickpeas, eggs, fish, seeds and nuts.

Saffron harvested from Crocus sativus has been shown to have some beneficial effects.

Kanna - This herb from South Africa contains alkaloids and some of these are believed to be psychoactive.

Flower remedies - Bach flower remedies are occasionally used to treat depression.

Non Dietary Alternatives

Bright light therapy - Used mainly for skin and sleep disorders this can also be applied for depression. This treatment has its roots in the ancient worship of the sun.

Acupuncture and in particular electroacupuncture where a small current is passed between the needles. As with most of the treatments here it seems to apply to a selection of medical conditions as opposed to all cases of depression.

Exercise but not just hard exercise. For instance a hobby like gardening, which will combine social benefits as well, can be very worthwhile.

Cold water therapy - Basically cold showers have been suggested as a stimulant for norepinephrine and beta-endorphins.

Meditation and the use of a mantra can be a good way to help a depressed mind to return to normal.

Neurofeedback - A way to provide direct control over a mental state and is similar to yoga induced benefits.

Sleep therapy - Depression is often associated with poor sleep patterns. Improving the sleep cycle can help.

Music therapy - The relationship between music and emotions has been established for a long time. Music, by Bach for example, can be effective in reducing depression temporarily.

All these and more can help overcome depression. Leave an open mind and just remember that drugs are not the only solution.

Make sure to check with your doctor before beginning any regimen. Seek out the help of a licensed naturopath or other alternative medical practitioner if your family physician is not educated about nutrition or alternative medicine. Do not stop your medication without the advice of a qualified medical professional.

Article written by Mike Holly.Mike has been promoting cottages in Amble, Northumberland.