Diet and Depression

Unfortunately, depression mild to moderate depression can accompany changes a diet and weight loss program. Some more mild symptoms of depression may be treated with adjustments to your diet and exercise routine while more moderate or severe symptoms may require the attention of your doctor. Fortunately, we live in an age where there is lots of help available for all types of depression if we ask. Of course, if you are suffering from depression, please speak with your doctor; you don't have to live with the symptoms of depression.

Some of the things you can do to improve mild symptoms of depression that occur when you are on a weight loss program is to make sure that you exercise enough. Exercise is a natural mood booster and will help you tone up as you lose weight. Furthermore, adding some healthy fats to your diet may help improve your mood. Studies show that omega-3 fatty acids, which can be found in fish or taken as a supplement, can improve your mood. If alter your diet and add exercise and are still suffering from some minor symptoms of depression, you may want to try some aromatherapy or drinking chamomile tea. Chamomile has a well-known soothing effect that may help with mild depression. Aromatherapy has also been shown to be beneficial for people with mild depression. Lemongrass, rosemary and sage are often used in aromatherapy to lift the mood while scents like lavender and jasmine are considered soothing.

For some people on a diet and weight loss program, lifestyle adjustments and aromatherapy treatments won't be enough to stave off the symptoms of depression. You and your doctor may decide on some medication to help ease the symptoms. Also, there are support groups and therapy available for people who suffer from diet related depression. These medical therapies have a high success rate and the newer anti-depression medications are free of many of the old off-putting side-effects that plagued users of older drugs. Furthermore, once your weight stabilizes and you adjust to your new, healthier lifestyle, you may find that you no longer need the medication and/or therapy.