Hi Hugs,
Many of the hormonal messengers in the brain are produced by amino acids with the help of vitamins and minerals. Amino acids are building blocks of protein, so consuming adequate protein is important. For example, tryptophan is an essential amino acid, meaning the body can't produce it on its own, it is derived from the food we eat. Tryptophan can be found foods like in fish, chicken, turkey, greens like spinach, broccoli, swiss chard, kale, lettuce, cooked beans etc..
Tryptophan is converted to serotonin in the body. Many of the anti-depressant drugs focus on increasing serotonin in the brain by inhibiting its reuptake in brain cells. However, its possible that some individuals do not have a sufficient amount of serotonin to begin with.
This is where supplementation comes in. I suggest speaking with your health care provider to discuss nutrition in more detail and they can suggest ways to improve your diet or recommend supplementing if need be.
In the meantime, include lots of fresh veggies and fruit in your diet daily - your body and mind will thank you for it!
Have a Happy Thanksgiving and enjoy your turkey...if you are vegetarian, then enjoy your greens!!
Vincenza, Health Educator
