Question:
Are there any studies which attempt to link teen depression to
nutrition? It strikes me that as a child becomes more independent, their
eating habits may tend to become less nutritive. Could this, in any way
be linked to the seeming rise in teen depression both in incidence and
severity? I was thinking its probably obvious but I cant find anything that
attempts to link the two and any reference to treatment immediately
delves into the magical world of drugs.
Answer:
Vitamins B (especially Vitamin B12) and EFA deficiency are linked with
depression
A lack of fruits and veggies in the diet resulting in a poor intake of
phytochemicals may result in depression as many phytochemicals are
endorphines needed for a good mood
Alcohol, coffee, sugar, chocolate and all addictive products are linked
with depression, especially when they cause withdrawal symptoms when
they're not consumed on a daily basis (many sagar withdrawal symptoms
are mistaken for hypoglicemia symptoms)
Lack of sun light and vitamin D may result in depression (light terapy
can cure depression to a certain extent
Lack of serotonin synthesis may result in depression (whole carbs foods
like lentils at dinner may help boosting serotonin production, the same
for foods rich in thriptophan)
Lack of sleep or not sleeping during the metabolic phase between 11.00
PM and 2.00 AM is know to be one of the major cause of depression
Teens usually stay awake late at night and are tired and depressed in
the morning
Sleeping more (or at least at nigh instead of in the morning) and waking
up early to walk and get some sun maybe be all is needed to cure one's
depression
When I don't sleep I feel like I hate the whole world the next day
I insult anyone, hate anyone and feel like life is senseless
One good night sleep and I forget about that sensation and feel happy,
relaxed and active
