Learn more about 10 nutritional deficiencies that cause symptoms of depression and mood disorders:
If you suffer from depression or mood disorders, you may be deficient in one of the nutrients listed below. Researchers have found that many people with depression and mood disorders are deficient in several nutrients, not just one, and all of these contribute to the symptoms.
1. Deficiencies in healthy foods? Junk food diet
Does your diet include a lot of sugar, junk food, soda, or processed foods? Do you often skip meals? If you suffer from depression or mood disorders, start a food diary of what you eat each day. You may find answers to your health problems by doing so. Your shopping cart and refrigerator tell the story of your health. My husband is a cashier at Walmart. People who shop for their families fill their carts with unhealthy, sugary cereals, chips, candy, soda, TV dinners, and overly processed food in general. The Seven-Elevens brand thrives by selling candy, soda, and fries to busy eaters. There are very few fresh fruits and vegetables on the average American's grocery list. This is why so many Americans are obese, depressed, and suffer from diabetes. If your life is chaotic, eating this kind of food isn't going to improve your outlook.
2. Omega 3 fatty acid deficiency
These nutrients are found in foods such as fish and flaxseed oil. A deficiency in Omega-3 fatty acids or an imbalance between Omega-3 and Omega-6 may be contributing factors to depression. Omega-3s are important for brain function and your mental outlook on life. They also help people suffering from inflammatory conditions and pain. Researchers have found that many people with depression and mood disorders are deficient in Omega-3s. It is important to buy cold-processed fish oil that has been tested for heavy metals and other contaminants. This information should be on the label.
