Ditch Depression WITHOUT Drugs
By
Dr. Scott Olson, ND
Posted March 13, 2023
You think that when you reach “your golden years,” you won’t have much to worry about anymore.
After all, many of life’s major stressors, like work, kids, and relationships, are pretty much settled by the time you hit your sixties.
So why the heck are we all so darned depressed then?!
According to a recent report by the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), more than seven million seniors over 65 are struggling with depression. But when you take a closer look, it becomes clear why.
To start with, it’s not just YOU getting older. Friends and family members are too. And that means the inevitability of losing some of the folks you love.
Or you may have been forced to change your living situation. And that can mean a loss of independence or simply moving away from where you’ve many fond years of your life.
Or you may be retired. And without a job to go to every day, you find yourself searching for purpose and meaning.
But there’s one MORE change that you’d never suspect has such a massive impact on your mental health. And researchers say fixing THIS works even better than meds in many cases.
It turns out you may not be exercising enough.
Most folks think when depression surfaces, a visit to their doctor for a prescription is in order.
Now, I won’t argue with a doctor’s visit. After all, checking in and bringing your doc up to speed on your health is always a good idea.
But instead of immediately turning to heavy-duty meds that often fail, tell your doc you’d like to try exercise first.
Because research finds exercise is more effective for treating depression than drugs. In fact, MUCH more effective, according to a new study published in the British Journal of Sports Medicine.
The researchers took a deep dive into the data from over 1030 trials involving 128,119 participants. And they found that physical activity eased depression, anxiety, and stress.
The exercise was 1.5 times more effective than standard depression medications. Plus, it worked quickly, banishing the blues and making people feel better fast.
You don’t need to run marathons or spend hours every day at the gym to see real results, either. Simply getting outside and moving more can do WONDERS for your mental health.
And if you’re a fan of higher-intensity workouts, that’s fantastic because they can be even more effective. Just be sure to check with your doctor for a thumbs-up first.
Aim to get some extra exercise a few times a week. For an easy boost in intensity, go for a walk and look for a good size hill to tackle at a fast pace.
But don’t stop with exercise:
- Studies suggest that inflammation may be at the root of depression. Fish oil and curcumin are natural inflammation fighters.
- Brain-supporting supplements, including the herb St. John’s wort and the amino acid 5-HTP can help ease depression.
- Research links poor sleep to depression. If you’re having problems sleeping, try calming herbs like chamomile and valerian, the amino acid theanine, and melatonin.
P.S It turns out your mental distress could be driven by a HORMONE. And it’s likely NOT the one you’re thinking of. CLICK THROUGH for the full details.
Source:
“Effectiveness of physical activity interventions for improving depression, anxiety and distress: an overview of systematic reviews,” British Journal of Sports Medicine Published Online First: 16 February 2023. doi: 10.1136/bjsports-2022-106195
Written By Dr. Scott Olson, ND
Nearly 25 years ago, failed mainstream medical treatments left Dr. Olson in constant pain – and his health in ruins. And that’s when he did something REVOLUTIONARY. He began his career in medicine – and dedicated his life to uncovering the true, underlying causes of disease.
Through his innovative medical practices in Tennessee and Colorado, Dr. Olson has helped cure countless seniors from across America of arthritis… heart disease… diabetes… and even cancer. All without risky prescription drugs or painful surgeries.
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