Exercise

“One of the best treatments for depression and anxiety is intense aerobic exercise, because it boosts blood flow to the brain, as well as energy levels.” - Dr. William Rodman Shankle (neurologist and professor of Cognitive Sciences)
There are studies that show that at least three aerobic exercise sessions per week of 40 minutes or more are as effective, if not more effective, than medication in treating depression or anxiety. See the video opposite for more information.

Diet

Research into nutritional and dietary medicine has demonstrated that food sensitivities may cause psychiatric symptoms. A number of studies have linked the intake of certain nutrients with the reported prevalence of different types of depression. For example, correlations between low intakes of fish by country and high levels of depression among its citizens – and the reverse – have been shown for many types of depression.

Complex carbohydrates as well as certain food components such as folic acid, omega-3 fatty acids, selenium and tryptophan may help to decrease the symptoms of depression. Those with low intakes of folate, or folic acid, have been found to be significantly more likely to be diagnosed with depression than those with higher intakes. Similar conclusions have been drawn from studies looking at the association of depression with low levels of zinc and vitamins B1, B2, B6, B12 and C. In other studies standard treatments have been supplemented with these micronutrients resulting in greater relief of symptoms in people with depression and bi-polar affective disorder, in some cases by as much as 50%. Please watch the videos below for further information: