ANXIETY VS DEPRESSION, Part 2: OMEGA-3s AND SAMe
Written By: Allie Might, FMC, INHC, and ATT
For further questions or concerns email me at [email protected]
We all know what an important topic anxiety and depression is, as so many suffer with these issues. In part one of this article, we discussed what anxiety and depression is, their similarities and differences, as well as some pro tips for coping. In this second part of this article, we’ll discuss a couple of my favorite supplements that can be extremely beneficial and why. Let’s look at Omega-3s such as Fish and Krill oils and S-Adenosylmethionine (SAMe). These are common supplements with many benefits, especially what it comes to any kind of stress management. These are also good to use along with the B-Vitamins, B6, B12 and folate, which we discussed in part one of this article. We know that Omega-3s, such as fish oil and Krill oil, are a staple in anyone’s supplement regimen for various reasons. However, it’s also an essential nutrient that helps to “soften” the blood-brain barrier. The blood-brain barrier helps to protect the brain from such things as toxins and viruses. However, this may also keep out some of the nutrients that help feed the brain. †
In an article titled ‘Fish Oil to Treat Depression’ from WebMD, it is shown how important the Omega-3s are for the brain and mood. In patients diagnosed with depression, it’s been shown that they have much lower levels of omega-3s within their red blood cells. Eating a diet rich in fish and even supplementing with a fish oil can have significant benefits on one’s mental health, whether there’s a disorder they are working on or looking to maintain already healthy mood. When it comes to promoting positive mood, S-Adenosylmethionine (SAMe) may be helpful. But what exactly is SAMe? Well, according to Mount Sinai, it is defined as “a naturally occurring compound found in almost every tissue and fluid in the body. It is involved in many important processes. SAMe plays a role in the immune system, maintains cell membranes, and helps produce and break down brain chemicals, such as serotonin, melatonin, and dopamine. It works with vitamin B12 and folate (vitamin B9). Being deficient in either vitamin B12 or folate may reduce levels of SAMe in your body.” † A study published by The Journal of Psychiatry and Neuroscience show that SAMe may be effective as an antidepressant. It also has very few side effects which can be helpful when introducing something new to one’s system, or for those that may be sensitive to products in the past. This is concurred by Mental Health America, when using SAMe for mood disorders, as well as safely for other brain disorders like ADHD and dementia. †
ICYMI:ANXIETY VS DEPRESSION PART 1: SIGNS, SYMPTOMS AND STRATEGIES>>READ NOW!
IN CONCLUSION…
Supplements can be quite effective in mood disorders. They can be used safely and with little side effects when used properly. If you feel as though you may be experiencing a mood disorder such as, but not limited to, anxiety or depression, I do encourage you to contact your doctor and not self-diagnose. Once you’ve worked with your doctor regarding what you may be experiencing, we can help work with you along with any medications that your doctor may prescribe to compliment your journey to a healthy mood and managing your stress levels. †
REFERENCES
https://journals.physiology.org/doi/full/10.1152/physrev.00050.2017
https://www.cuimc.columbia.edu/news/omega-3s-may-hold-key-unlocking-blood-brain-barrier
https://www.webmd.com/depression/features/fish-oil-to-treat-depression
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC543840/
https://www.mountsinai.org/health-library/supplement/s-adenosylmethionine
https://www.mhanational.org/sam-e
