Natural enhancer for the treatment of depression
Due to the pandemic that occurred in 2020, there have been a significant increase in the number of cases of depression worldwide. The quarantine has left many people unable to carry out their usual rhythm of life , not being able to go out with their friends, family or partners, this has strongly impact mental health. Moreover the sequels of COVID-19 include mental health conditions such as depression.
Depression is an illness or mood disorder in which feelings of sadness, loss, anger, or frustration interfere with daily life for a period of at least two weeks.
Depression requires profesional attention and farmacology treatment, but there are natural complements to boost conventional treatment. I am talking about Omega 3 fatty acids, these have shown to be very effective as complement, leading to faster recovery and additional benefits for general health.
These fatty acids improve the transport of neurotransmitters and provide anti-inflammatory properties which are the main causes of depression. They can be obtained mainly from animal protein (Blue fish).
Through a study, using two types of fatty acids such as eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), in patients with depression, they had a significant impact in reducing symptoms.
A certain number of patients were treated with EPA and the rest with DHA, supplying 3 g of EPA and 1.4 g of DHA per day for three months. On average, patients using EPA had a 64% decrease in symptoms, while those using DHA had a 71% decrease.
These acids prevent increased cell death and reduced neurogenesis in the hypothalamus.
Not all patients are willing to consume animal protein to obtain these benefits. In this case, only through food supplements that are made to complete this type of complement or natural booster. Benefitial effects have been found with at least 500 mg suplementation per day.
There is also another alternative but it is not as effective as EPA and DHA fatty acids, and it is alpha-linolenic acid (ALA).
This type of acid can be found in foods of plant origin.
The main sources of omega 3 of plant origin are:
Ground flaxseed and flaxseed oil.
Walnuts.
Chia seed (sage).
Canola oil and soybean oil.
Soy and tofu.
Spinach.
By consuming this type of plant-based food rich in ALA, we will be nota just complementing farmacology treatment for depression but also favoring heart care. For people with heart problems, it is recommended that your body receives at least 1g of any of these three types of fatty acids.
