"DIET & DEPRESSION"

-- THE FACTS --

 
Depression is very ubiquitous: It is one of the most common forms of mental mental illness in the world.
In the United States of America, the economic costs of depression in terms of lost productivity, absenteeism from work and treatment was recently estimated to be about 44 billion dollars, annually.
Depression is 2-3 times more common in women than in men.
20-30% of acute depressed patients do not fully respond to treatment.
15-50% of depressed patients experience a recurrence of depression despite continuous treatment. 
According to several national research studies, most Americans (80-90%), including millions of people who suffer from depression, have dietary deficiencies.  
These deficiencies tend to be caused by low levels of various B-vitamins, minerals, and EPA/DHA (Eicosapentaenoic Acid/Docosahexaenoic Acid, both omega-3 fatty acids) consumed in the "typical American diet."
Numerous scientific research studies have shown that dietary deficiencies of various B-vitamins, minerals, and EPA/DHA tend to precipitate, exacerbate and perpetuate depressive symptoms. 
Research studies have also demonstrated that depressed patients with dietary deficiencies of B-vitamins, minerals, and EPA/DHA tend to have significantly poorer responses to antidepressant medications.
By correcting dietary deficiencies and improving nutritional status, depressive symptoms tend to improve along with the patients' response to antidepressant medications.

                                                                  

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DIET & DEPRESSION LECTURE SERIES