foods and depression Archives - Amazing Health Advances

Study Links Common Antidepressants to Weight Gain

The AHA! Team — Mon, 16 Dec 2024 06:09:50 +0000

News Staff via NaturalHealth365 – Depression and anxiety affect more Americans than ever before, with millions of people taking antidepressants, anti-anxiety medication, and various hybrid courses of therapy every day. While these medications may work for some people (temporarily), they are not without unwanted side effects, including weight gain, reduced positive feelings and suicidal thoughts! While gaining weight over the course of antidepressant treatment is relatively common, the amount of weight gain varies between the first-line medications used in most doctors’ offices. Researchers set out to quantify the expected weight gain associated with antidepressant use and compare the differences among major prescriptions. Although depression and anxiety are widespread in today’s society, numerous treatment options exist, many of which are holistic and do not involve medication. This article will examine a recent study on antidepressant-related weight gain and its findings and explore alternative approaches to managing depression and anxiety beyond prescription medications. What’s fueling the rise in depression? There is no shortage of stressors in the world today to be depressed about; a combination of unstable geopolitics, inflation, and any number of personal issues can weigh heavily on a person’s mental health. Our society is so breakneck that we are expected to work ourselves to the bone while not displaying weakness, and this can easily lead to burnout and depression. There are other factors at play, however – the unnatural and highly processed diets that we almost all partake in are key factors in depression development. There is a profound link between bodily inflammatory states and the development of depression in all age groups. It is reasonable to look at the world around us and assume that mental health crises abound because of the state of everything, but one of the biggest contributors could be living right within your body. Researchers explore the impact of antidepressants on weight gain Antidepressants like SSRIs (selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors) work by preventing the reabsorption (or reuptake) of serotonin, a neurotransmitter, back into neurons. This allows serotonin to remain available longer in the brain, improving mood regulation. While the exact mechanism of how this alleviates anxiety and depression isn’t fully understood, the ability of SSRIs to enhance serotonin signaling has shown enough efficacy in treating these conditions to warrant their widespread medical use. In addition to a variety of other side effects, some mild, some less so, weight gain is a well-known side effect of most antidepressants. The researchers of the study above assessed the health records of over 180,000 mental health patients over 24 months in the United States. They examined the baseline weight and BMI of each individual at the time their course of antidepressants began, at the midpoint of 12 months, and the end. The main antidepressants, often referred to as ‘first-line’ medications, include bupropion (Wellbutrin), escitalopram (Lexapro), paroxetine (Paxil), duloxetine (Cymbalta), sertraline (Zoloft), citalopram (Celexa), and venlafaxine (Effexor). Each of these medications has its own profile of potential side effects, but some may also provide additional benefits for comorbid mental health conditions alongside depression. As a result, the choice of medication is tailored to the individual’s specific needs and circumstances. The analysis of over 180,000 patients showed a clear line of weight gain in an overwhelming majority. Of those examined, Zoloft and Lexapro showed the most significant weight gain. The difference between each medication was not extremely high, and bupropion showed the least weight gain. The researchers, however, did admit that they could not control for medication adherence – their data indicated only that the patients were prescribed these medications for the 24 months of the observation, but there was no way to know if they were taking them regularly or not. Tips to combat depression naturally Research increasingly supports the idea that what we eat can significantly impact our mood and mental well-being. A groundbreaking study published in the journal Nutritional Neuroscience found that adherence to a Mediterranean-style diet supplemented with fish oil was associated with lower rates of depression and improved overall mental health. We, at NaturalHealth365, consistently advocate for a natural diet rich in organic, whole foods as a powerful tool to combat many chronic health issues. While depression is a complex condition that may not always respond solely to dietary changes, adopting a whole-food diet can play a crucial role in supporting mental health. In addition, we know that the pharmaceutical industry would like all of us believe that depression or anxiety is best treated by taking their drugs. Conversely, we would like to see more doctors giving out lifestyle advice to their patients to improve the quality of their physical, mental and emotional wellbeing. For example, consistent daily exercise offers multiple benefits for mental health. It helps regulate blood sugar levels, which in turn reduces systemic inflammation. Additionally, exercise has been shown to boost mood and alleviate symptoms of depression and anxiety. Quality sleep is crucial for overall health, with mental well-being particularly vulnerable to sleep disturbances. Many modern health issues can be significantly improved through a combination of regular exercise, proper nutrition, and adequate sleep. Bottom line: do everything you can to improve the quality of your sleep, starting tonight. Remember, addressing sleep, exercise, and diet is fundamental to managing any health condition, including mental health disorders. By focusing on these areas, you’re taking proactive steps toward better mental and physical well-being. Sources for this article include: Acpjournals.org Medicalnewstoday.com NIH.gov To read the original article click here.

The post Study Links Common Antidepressants to Weight Gain appeared first on Amazing Health Advances.

The Wrong Kind of Food Linked to Increased Depression Risk

The AHA! Team — Mon, 23 Sep 2024 08:06:35 +0000

Patrick Tims via NaturalHealth365 – Technology and social isolation are frequently cited as major factors in the rising depression epidemic both in the United States and around the world. While many people do feel increasingly disconnected from their communities, the surge in depression cannot be solely attributed to these tech-driven issues. Recent research published in Clinical Nutrition points to another significant factor: the consumption of ultra-processed foods. With an estimated 280 million people globally experiencing depression, it’s clear that multiple factors contribute to this widespread issue. Research reveals link between ultra-processed foods and depression Recent research highlights a significant connection between the consumption of ultra-processed foods and an increased risk of depression. While this study focused on Brazilian residents, it’s worth noting that Brazilians actually consume fewer ultra-processed foods on average than people in the United States, the United Kingdom, and other developed nations. The study, part of the “NutriNet Brasil” initiative, aimed to investigate chronic diseases and dietary patterns among Brazilians aged 18 and older. Participants completed online questionnaires on their health and dietary habits, initially enrolling in the winter of 2020. The researchers used Nova24h, an innovative online dietary recall tool to assess dietary intake. This technology categorizes foods based on their level of processing and monitors consumption patterns at six and twelve-month intervals. How processed foods might be affecting your mood A Patient Health Questionnaire was employed at the 14-month mark to evaluate symptoms of depression. Participants without a previous depression diagnosis who scored in the depressive range were assessed further with additional questionnaires every six months. This ongoing analysis aimed to track changes in depression symptoms over time. The data analysis uncovered a strong link between the consumption of highly processed foods and the onset of depression. Even after adjusting for factors like diet quality, lifestyle, and demographics, the study found that increased consumption of highly processed foods was associated with a higher risk of developing depression. Specifically, the risk increased by 42% for those consuming higher levels of processed foods compared to those with the lowest intake. Additionally, for every 10% increase in highly processed food consumption, there was a corresponding 10% rise in depression risk. Simple tips to cut down on processed foods and boost your well-being Transitioning to a healthier diet begins with mindful grocery shopping. Here are some practical tips to help you reduce your intake of processed foods and enhance your well-being: Plan your meals: Create a weekly meal plan that includes a variety of whole foods such as organic fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains. This helps ensure you’re not relying on processed foods for convenience. Make a shopping list: Before heading to the store, prepare a list of nutritious groceries based on your meal plan. Stick to this list to avoid the temptation of picking up processed snacks or convenience foods. Read labels carefully: When buying packaged foods, check the ingredient list for artificial additives, preservatives, and high levels of sugar or sodium. Opt for products with fewer ingredients and recognizable names. Cook at home: Prepare meals from scratch as much as possible. Home-cooked meals allow you to control the ingredients and avoid hidden additives found in processed foods. Incorporate fresh produce: Focus on buying fresh, organic fruits and vegetables. Choose a variety of colors and types to ensure you’re getting a wide range of nutrients. Opt for lean proteins: Choose lean protein sources such as pasture raised (organic) chicken, wild-caught fish, and organic beans. These options are less processed and provide essential nutrients without added fats or preservatives. Stay hydrated: Drink plenty of clean (filtered) water throughout the day. Sometimes, cravings for processed foods can be mistaken for thirst. Find healthy substitutes: Replace processed snacks with healthier alternatives like fresh fruit, nuts, or homemade popcorn. Experiment with recipes to find satisfying, nutritious options. Grow your own produce: If possible, start a small organic garden at home. Growing your own vegetables and herbs can be a rewarding way to ensure you have access to fresh, unprocessed ingredients. Explore local markets: Shop at local farmers’ markets or organic stores. These venues often offer fresh, seasonal produce and can be a great way to support local agriculture. By following these tips, you’ll reduce your intake of processed foods and boost your mental and physical health, leading to a happier and healthier you. Sources for this article include: Clinicalnutritionjournal.com Psypost.org WHO.int To read the original article click here.

The post The Wrong Kind of Food Linked to Increased Depression Risk appeared first on Amazing Health Advances.

How Foods Are Tested for Depression

AHA Publisher — Wed, 29 Jun 2022 07:05:11 +0000

Michael Greger M.D. FACLM via Nutrition Facts – What is the science behind the marketing of foods for antidepressant effects? If you go online, you can see claims about “coconut water being beneficial for depression,” and studies are even cited. You can see it yourself in black and white—“Young coconut water ameliorates depression”—as shown at 0:16 in my video Flashback Friday: Coconut Water and Depression. Did they just make that up? No, if you click on the related link, there it is in PubMed, just like they said. And, for a limited time offer of just $39.95, the publisher will let you read the study, but why waste your time? It says it right there in the title: “Young coconut water ameliorates depression…” Might as well spend that 40 bucks buying some coconut water to boost your mood! Anyway, I’m reading all the studies, so you don’t have to. That’s my job! So what does the study actually say? It starts out saying that “plants are frequently tested for its [sic] antidepressant potential.” So far, so good. “Therefore young coconut water, a commonly used plant based beverage, was selected to explore its antidepressant potential.” Okay, still with you. So, “rodents were selected for this study and forced swim test was conducted to explore antidepressant activity.” What?! The forced swim test is “one of the most widely used test to explore antidepressant activity.” A transparent cylinder is filled with water to a level over a mouse’s head, so they’re forced to swim. Then you drop a mouse into the water and see how long they struggle to keep from drowning before they simply give up and float to the top. Lo and behold, if you feed them some coconut water first, they hold out a bit longer before giving up, “demonstrate[ing] antidepressant activity.” Therefore, “findings from this study can be taken as a lead to use young coconut water in depressive disorders” in people. What?! It depresses me to even read such wasted research opportunities. Where did they even get this idea? It was invented by a group of French scientists in the Seventies to model “behavioral despair.” That reminds me of the Harlow experiments, which involved vertical chamber confinement that he called “the pit of despair.” It was essentially a metal contraption with sloped sides, as you can see at 2:15 in my video. If you lock a baby monkey inside of it for 45 days, you can produce “profound and persistent behavioral abnormalities of a depressive nature in monkey subjects.” They end up curled up in the fetal position, hugging themselves, as you can see at 2:24 in my video. After ten weeks alone in the chamber, they exhibit behaviors like the “contact cling,” where they just come together and hug each other for long periods of time. “It is not yet clear why confinement in the vertical chamber is apparently so effective in producing abnormal behavior…[but] studies are now underway,” so don’t you worry. I’ll spare you the similar research that’s been conducted on puppies. I can see why you’d want to test out new antidepressant drugs, but if you want to figure out if pomegranates have anti-depressant effects, why not just feed people some pomegranates, rather than throwing some mice into the deep end in a forced swimming test? There are literally thousands of published studies on food or food products using this forced swim test. They allow the egg industry, for example, to say things like “whole egg may be an excellent food for preventing and alleviating the conditions of major depression.” Why? Because rats struggled longer after being fed eggs before they were forced to swim? In people, however, removing eggs from the diet improves mood—though, the researchers also removed meat from their diet, so it’s not clear which did what. It’s also possible the subjects were just eating more healthful plant foods, like soy. In fact, the soy industry is happy to tell you soy “decreases depressive-related behavior”…in postmenopausal rats, who were fighting for their lives in yet another forced swim test. In people, though, the best soy products may be able to do is simply work as well as drugs like Prozac and Zoloft, as you can see at 3:57 in my video, and we all know how little that actually says. I mean, the forced swim test is just “a reaction to the acute stressful stimulus of being placed in a container without an escape route, and human depression reflects a chronic subjective emotional state rather than a reaction to an individual stimulus. Most importantly, depression is…[an] internal emotional state and, to date, the subjective internal emotional state of nonverbal species is not knowable.” We haven’t been able to ask animals how they’re feeling. You can’t even just look at human behavior and tell if someone has a depression diagnosis, so “it is impossible to conclude with certainty that the FST [forced swim test] is a measure or a test of depression, or a ‘depression-like’ state.” The “ease” with which thousands of scientists do that, however, is “disquieting” in that it makes an assumption that “discourages critical thought.” In fact, “floating has been a criterion in the past to judge the witchcraft outcome of forced swim, but today it is in use to label a rodent as being depressed.” Isn’t that unbelievable? Now you know why I try to stick to human studies on NutritionFacts.org. What about Coconut Water for Athletic Performance vs. Sports Drinks? Watch the video to learn more. KEY TAKEAWAYS Coconut water has been touted as being beneficial for depression, but studies cited to back up the claim not only were performed on rodents instead of humans, but they were the forced swim test in which researchers see how long animals struggle to keep from drowning before they simply give up. Researchers claim that when mice are given coconut water before being forced to swim for their lives, they are able to survive a bit longer before giving up, “demonstrate[ing] antidepressant activity.” Therefore, “findings from this study can be taken as a lead to use young coconut water in depressive disorders” in people. Other questionable animal experiments include the Harlow experiments, which use “the pit of despair”—a metal contraption with sloped sides. Researchers found that locking a baby monkey inside for 45 days can produce “profound and persistent behavioral abnormalities of a depressive nature,” with the animals curled up in the fetal position, hugging themselves. Thousands of published studies on food or food products have used the forced swim test. The egg industry, for example, claims whole eggs may be helpful with depression because rats who had been fed eggs before they were forced to swim struggled longer in the water. In humans, though, mood has been shown to improve by removing eggs from the diet, though meat was also removed, so it’s unclear which did what. The soy industry also claims soy decreases behavior related to depression–albeit in postmenopausal rats who were also used in a forced swim test. Soy products may be able to work as well as pharmaceuticals like Prozac and Zoloft in humans, but that doesn’t say much. The forced swim test is “a reaction to the acute stressful stimulus of being placed in a container without an escape route, and human depression reflects a chronic subjective emotional state rather than a reaction to an individual stimulus. Most importantly, depression is…[an] internal emotional state and, to date, the subjective internal emotional state of nonverbal species is not knowable.” “[I]t is impossible to conclude with certainty that the FST [forced swim test] is a measure or a test of depression, or a ‘depression-like’ state.” In fact, “floating has been a criterion in the past to judge the witchcraft outcome of forced swim, but today it is in use to label a rodent as being depressed.” To read the original article click here.

The post How Foods Are Tested for Depression appeared first on Amazing Health Advances.