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Nutrition
See also Management of Depression

There are possible benefits to nutrition as an alternative or supplement to conventional methods of treating depression. Changes in diet often have fewer side effects than prescription medication, but certain amino acids and fatty acids can also effect brain chemistry and emotion similarly to anti-depressants. When used holistically as part of a person with depression's treatment, proper nutrition can contribute to a better patient outcome.

Extensive research has revealed that individuals with major depressive disorder lack an optimal level of both eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), two forms of omega-3 fatty acids. A study published in 2003 by Eur Neuropsychopharmacol reports that patients receiving omega-3 fatty acid supplements exhibit “significantly decreased scores” when evaluated by the Hamilton Rating Scale for Depression as opposed to patients receiving a placebo.

Although the link between depression and omega-3 fatty acid levels has been proven to be clinically significant, it is still unclear if supplementation is beneficial regardless of whether or not a patient is taking anti-depressants. More research is needed to test these theories, but the initial findings are very positive for patients hoping to cope with their depression through diet. Study participants with major depressive disorder or postpartum depression who consumed low amounts of fish were more likely to have low omega-3 fatty acid levels which exacerbated their depression. Sontrop and Campbell's study revealed that a 1 g/day increase of omega-3s “significantly improved” depressives' symptoms, which reflects various case studies covering several patient demographics.

People suffering from depression are also encouraged to include typtophan in their diet, an essential amino acid that synthesizes serotonin, a neurotransmitter that is commonly thought to help produce feelings of happiness and well-being.

There are several recommended dietary intakes that can help treat symptoms of depression. Patients have been advised to take 200-1600 mg doses daily of the amino acid SAMe, a methyl-group donor that can be bought over the counter as a supplement. Moreover, daily intake of 300mg of 5-Hydroxy-tryptophan, which can be found in high amounts in food such as chicken breast, soy beans, and skim milk and 2 servings of fish (which is a good source of omega-3 fatty acids) a week are all helpful in relieving symptoms of depression.