I truly hope that you are all doing well. My office is here to help in any way that we can during this challenging time. It really is challenging for all of us, please be kind to yourselves!
Studies have shown since 2018 mental health issues, such as anxiety and depression, are the number one reason that patients are going to see their general practice physicians. Because of this pandemic that we are living through I can only imagine that trend will continue.
I want to share some information presented in the current research which pertains to underlying nutritional causes of mental health issues as well as a few supplements that I use regularly for anxiety and depression. Many of you know that I prefer to perform lab tests, such as blood, urine and saliva tests, to determine an individualized treatment plan, which I do think is the best way to treat, but the following information can be helpful to most cases.
It has been shown in the research since 1947 that probiotics have positive effects on brain chemicals called neurotransmitters. Microbiome, is the term used to describe the bacteria, among other organisms, that live in our bodies. Probiotics, are the bacteria that colonize our gastrointestinal tracts, are helpful for immune and mental health. A good quality probiotic supplement is essential to overall health.
Some nutritional causes of panic attacks as reported by the World Journal of Psychiatry include low B6, B12 and iron. I often use passionflower, magnesium threonate, GABA, glycine, and lithium orotate supplements to treat anxiety. Individual levels of the above mentioned nutrients (except passionflower) are easily tested and treatable.
Nutrients that are used to treat depression that can also be tested are folate, iron, magnesium, potassium, selenium, vitamin C, zinc, and the B vitamins. Of all the nutrients studied over the years, long chain Omega Fatty Acids are by far the shining star among supplements to treat both anxiety and depression. Our brains love a good quality fish or flax oil supplement.
If you have questions, concerns or would like to schedule a phone, office or telemedicine visit feel free to contact the office.
Sincerely,
Michelle K Jackson