Supplementing for Mild Depression

For relief from mild depression, Dr. Andrew Weil suggests adding vitamins, minerals, and antioxidant rich supplements to a well-balanced diet. Dr. Weil recommends four specific supplements: B vitamins, St. Johns Wort, SAMe(S-adenosylmethionine), and fish oil. Research has shown that patients with depression have exhibited lower levels of B vitamins, specifically B6. B6 is found in many different foods such as salmon and peanut butter, but can also be found in pill form. St. Johns Wort has also yielded promising results as an alternative treatment for depression. In studies, standardized extracts of St. Johns Wort have proven as effective as Prozac at treating depression, although it should not be combined with birth control, anti-retroviral medications, or antidepressant medications. SAMe had similar results to St. Johns Wort but has been shown to work more quickly. The omega-3 fatty acids in fish oil are helpful in promoting overall positive feelings. 1000-2000 mg per day of fish oil can be useful in treating mild forms of depression according to Dr. Weil.