The anti-antidepressant mood lifter Q: I've struggled with depression most of my adult life and have taken prescription antidepressants off and on for years. I hate the side effects, but I hate the depression even more. I know there are many natural mood-lifters, but I'd prefer not to try dozens of different things if I don't have to. In your opinion, what is the most effective natural remedy for depression? Dr. Wright: In over 30 years of practice, I've found that depression can almost always be cleared up with an individualized program that includes an individualized amino acid protocol. Although not every clinically depressed individual has low essential amino acids, the majority do, so I always recommend that patients battling depression be tested for these key nutrients. You can have your fasting essential amino acids checked with a blood test. Over the years I've been recommending this test, I've found that Meridian Valley Laboratory (425- 271-8689, www.meridianvalleylab.com) and Metametrix Laboratories (770-446-5483, www.metametrix.com) do the best jobs for the best prices. Whichever lab you choose, if your essential amino acids are low, make sure to use a blend of all eight essential amino acids (including tryptophan) individualized for you. And, just as importantly, make sure to look for the cause of your low levels. It probably won't surprise you to learn that, quite often, that cause turns out to be hypochlorhydria, or low stomach acid. If that's the case, then add injections of vitamin B12 with folic acid to your program: These are always a good idea for anyone with low stomach acid. Individualized amino acids along with these injections can frequently help your depression clear up within a few months' time. (Although, usually, when my patients add the specific combination of amino acids determined by their personal test results to their supplement programs, they start feeling better in just a few weeks.) As you can tell, all of this may be a little complicated, so it's best to work with a physician skilled and knowledgeable in nutritional and natural medicine to help you coordinate it all. For a list of such physicians in your area, contact the American College for Advancement in Medicine at (800)532-3688 or visit their website, www.acam.org. |
