Depression

The Surprising Way to Beat Depression

Your brain is a complicated thing.

In fact, your brain may be the most complicated thing in the universe.

So it’s no wonder there’s so much confusing information about there on why we develop conditions like depression.

In just the past few months, studies have blamed inflammation, your weight, and nutrient deficiencies for causing depression.

But, believe it or not, these three depression triggers all have one thing in common.

It has to do with a critical brain chemical that holds the key to conquering depression once and for all.

This chemical is called Brain-Derived Neurotrophic Factor (BDNF).

BDNF is actually a small protein (called a peptide). Its job in your brain is to increase the growth of new nerve cells. BDNF also protects your brain from damage.

The higher BDNF you have in your brain, the better you think (improved cognition) and the better connections between brain cells you have.

BDNF has been found to be low in people with Alzheimer’s, epilepsy, schizophrenia, and post-traumatic stress disorder.

And guess what happens when we are depressed?

That’s right, BDNF drops like a rock.

I’m not a big fan of antidepressants, but they have been shown to increase BDNF activity and improve brain function.

But there are better ways to naturally increase BDNF.

A new study published in the journal Psychiatry Investigation suggests that losing even a few pounds can increase BDNF – and help lead you out of depression.

But don’t stop at weight loss, there is much more you can do to increase BDNF.

Dr. Scott’s BDNF Increasing Plan:

  • Exercise: Yes, exercise increases BDNF. Even a little exercise can go a long way. Try walking a few minutes every day and see if you can increase that to 30-40 minutes a day.
  • Curcumin: Many studies have shown that adding curcumin helps to increase BDNF.
  • Fast: Not eating is a hard thing to do, but studies have shown fasting can increase BDNF levels by 500%. It is a lot for most people to think about not eating, but I suggest eating breakfast later and dinner earlier to get the benefits without having to go without food.
  • Lose Weight: If you need help losing weight, try avoiding simple sugars and balancing your blood sugar with berberine and chromium.

For many years we thought that depression was a thinking disorder. We now know that how we live, what we eat, and how we think, can all play a role.

Dr. Scott Olson, ND

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.

View More Free Articles

The 5 Health Numbers Your Doctor Wishes You'd Track

Have you ever been told you should “advocate” for yourself when it comes to your healthcare and wondered what that really means? It’s not just a buzzword—it’s a powerful concept that empowers you to take charge of your own health journey. In fact, it could save your life. Being your own best health advocate starts...

Read This

Do THIS Every 20 Minutes to STOP Digital Eye Strain

Our eyes are under assault—they are the true victims of our current digital age. And it’s because we are constantly glued to screens… phones, tablets, computers, TVs—you name it. Unfortunately, that screen time is taking a serious toll. Digital eye strain affects millions worldwide. In fact, up to 50 percent of computer users could develop...

Read This

Mailbag: The Calcium Mistake That's Hardening Your Arteries

“What type of calcium is best to take with bisphosphonates for osteoporosis? I know some varieties can build up in arteries. Thanks for the help.” —Bone Builder Hi Builder, When a patient asks me about calcium, I ask them a peculiar question in return… “Ever wonder how elephants and giraffes build and maintain their massive...

Read This

Doctor-Approved Method to Ditch Blood Pressure Meds

In a world where drug solutions dominate healthcare, it’s refreshing to discover that best remedies sometimes don’t involve a single pill. A groundbreaking study shows simple relaxation techniques could be your secret weapon against one of America’s deadliest health conditions. Best of all? It’s free, easy to start right away—and your results are bound to...

Read This

Trouble Hearing? Your Heart Could Be at Risk

With research exploding and data pouring in, scientists are uncovering some weird (and surprisingly helpful) health connections. Today’s odd couple? Hearing loss and heart failure. Turns out your ears and your ticker are more connected than you ever imagined. A major study published in the journal Heart looked at over 164,000 people for nearly a...

Read This

Stay Up Late? It Could Destroy Your Mental Health

If you dread mornings but come alive at night, there’s concerning new research you need to know about. A recent study found that “night owls” are at higher risk for depression. But before you rush to set your alarm to get up with the sun tomorrow, there’s more to the story… Chronotypes are essentially your...

Read This

Go from Flabby to Fit with this Common Vitamin

If you’re like many of us, you woke up one day, looked in the mirror, and realized you’re no spring chicken anymore. Even worse—when you weren’t paying attention—it seems you somehow misplaced the muscles of your youth and have gone from fit to flabby. Aging has a way of humbling us like that. But scientists...

Read This

Seasonal Allergy “Off Switch” Discovered in the GUT

“Doc, why am I suddenly suffering from seasonal allergies when I’ve never had them before?” It’s a question I get all the time—and my answer might surprise you. Stop looking up at the trees—and start looking down at your gut… Your sneezing fits, itchy eyes, and runny nose might have more to do with what’s...

Read This

“Canary in the Coal Mine” Test Sniffs Out Brain Issues Early

One of the most common questions I get is how to tell if you’re starting to experience cognitive decline. I get it—losing your memory is scary, especially when it sneaks up on you. But here’s some exciting news that might put your mind at ease. A fascinating new study suggests that your nose might be...

Read This

BEAT Stubborn Leg Swelling Without Dangerous Diuretics

“I need help with edema.” —Swollen Hi Swollen, When patients complain of edema—fluid retention that causes feet, ankles, and legs to swell—I explain that, while conventional medicine immediately prescribes diuretic drugs, nature offers us effective solutions we can try first. I’ll share those in just a moment, but first, let’s take a quick look at...

Read This