[Vowel Lady]

If you have depression, you might want to seriously think about getting this book! It's called "Food and Mood." The author, Elizabeth Somer MA., R.D. talks about how certain chemicals in food can influence our brain chemistry.

She also talks a lot about supplements. She is a big believer in the importance of the B Vitamins, especially B6, B12 and Folic Acid. I have been screaming from the rooftops about how I was considering going on an antidepressant, but taking B vitamins (a special thank you to two people from BT), exercise and eating properly has cured me of my depression. I know it is hard to believe, but it is the honest to goodness truth. One other thing I do is read positive, uplifting literature. I also see a therapist twice a month...but we have already discussed going to once a month starting in January.

Chances are if you are suffering from a severe depression, medication is absolutely needed. But this (what I'm talking about) could very well be an add-on therapy that could make things go much faster for you.

She discusses how food and/or supplements can help with the following:
Mood, Insomnia, Overweight, Fatigue, PMS, SAD, Depression, Srress, Intelligence and Nutrition.

My only complaint about the book is that when she talks about B12, she doesn't mention the Methyl. (do not know how to spell this) brand, which is the preferred type. Other than that, I think the book is very good.

BTW, I take a B50 supplement and extra B12 too. I have heard many people over the age of 40 or who are on mulitple medications often need extra B12. For a variety of different reasons, some people just don't absorb it as they should. There seems to be some controvery regarding the levels needed and the testing provided. I do know that since taking the B50 supplement combined with extra B12, I started to feel better. This coupled with exercise, good eating, and filling my head with good thoughts did the trick for me in terms of doing away with depression.

It is sometimes very hard to exercise when depressed. However, if you can do a little something, anything at all, it will pay big dividends in the end. When you feel better, do a little more. Be joyous and proud of yourself for your efforts. Pat yourself on the shoulder. Depression is a real illness and should be considered in this way. However, it is also important to do your very best to try to push through it as best as you can...baby steps are to be celebrated.

I hope this is of help to someone.