Life can be stressful and unfortunately, stress is something we face everyday. Emotional, physical and environmental stress can make you feel run down. Sometimes, it can even make you feel depressed. Due to the high rate of people affected by chronic stress and depression, our country has turned to prescription anti-depressants and anti-anxiety medication. These medications not only cause dangerous and life threatening side effects, many of them are highly addictive. Thankfully, people have started to realize the danger of prescription medications and are now turning to natural alternative solutions.

Rhodiola Rosea

Rhodiola Rosea is an adaptogenic herb that works with the body to reduce stress and ease depression. Rhodiola Rosea has been shown to enhance mood, sleep and mental focus. It calms the bodies stress response system and supports normal levels of neurotransmitters. Because it is an adaptogen, Rhodiola Rosea has the ability to work as a natural mood booster, without causing drowsiness and dangerous side effects.

When we are stressed, the body releases a hormone called cortisol. If we run our bodies under a constant state of stress, we end up with too much cortisol. Excess cortisol can cause adrenal burnout, memory loss, premature aging and weight gain. Rhodiola Rosea calms the body’s stress response system, which helps to reduce the amount of cortisol released into the body.

The chemical compounds present in Rhodiola Rosea have also been shown to combat anxiety and depression.  Rhodiola Rosea balances levels of serotonin, dopamine and norepinephrine, which is crucial for making us feel happy and energetic. By restoring and supporting chemical balance, Rhodiola Rosea may naturally ease depression and anxiety.

Cod Liver Oil

Cod Liver Oil is extremely rich in omega-3 fatty acids. Studies show that consuming plenty of omega-3 fatty acids may offer powerful protection against depression. These studies have also shown that deficient intakes of omega-3 fatty acids may increase risk for mental distress and disorders.

The connection between omega-3 fatty acids and depression was documented in a recent study published in the Journal of Affective Disorders. A large Norwegian study of nearly 22,000 participants revealed that those who regularly took Cod Liver Oil were about 30% less likely to have symptoms of depression than those who did not.

Omega 3 fatty acids may also alleviate symptoms for those who already suffer from depression. A recent study conducted at the Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland studied the effects of omega-3 supplementation on 49 patients with repeated episodes of harming themselves. For 12 weeks, the patients received 1200 mg EPA plus 900 mg DHA or a matching placebo. At the end of the treatment period, the group who received the omega-3 fatty acids greatly improved their scores for depression, suicidality and daily stresses.

Due to overwhelming evidence of its efficacy, the American Psychiatric Association has started to recommend omega-3 fatty acids for the prevention and treatment of depression. Many believe that omega-3 supplementation has an effect as great, if not greater than, antidepressants for depression management and overall mental health.