One of the ways a Naturopathic Doctor distinguishes herself is by understanding the cause of the pathology.  In the case of mood disorders, this is multifaceted.  Neurotransmitters, nutritional status of vitamin D, magnesium, vitamin B12, and zinc are all examined and kept in optimal levels to prevent the manifestation of the mood disorder. 

L.D., thirty- two year old woman presented to clinic with main complaints of anxiety, lack of ability to focus, trouble falling asleep. Pressure at the job had increased and she was fearful that she would not be able to keep it.  Neurotransmitter testing revealed low levels of Gaba, Taurine and elevated Epinephrine.  Other blood work was normal except she had a  low Vitamin D level.  L.D. admits she’s been eating more junk food lately to cope with the stress including chocolate, corn chips and soda.  I encouraged her to eat more foods enriched with Vit D including orange juice, herring, and milk.  Her supplements included 1 Tablespoon of Cod liver oil, Kavinase 2 caps 2 x day.  In two months her symptoms improved and neurotransmitter retesting revealed all her neurotransmitters to be balanced.  L.D. is thankful to be able to enjoy life more and remain gainfully employed.

Mood disorders are on the rise in the United States.  Many people suffer from more than one mental disorder at a given time.  It is no doubt we are facing tough times.  Financial pressure has escalated. Unemployment levels are high.  Those of us who are fortunate enough to be employed are faced with heavy workloads.  FirstHealth is here to meet your needs.  In response to a survey taken earlier in the year, our patients are interested in alternatives to pharmaceuticals for the treatment of their mood disorder being depression, anxiety, insomnia, fatigue, ADHD and/or addictions.  Naturopathic medicine, acupuncture, exercise, massage, nutrition and reflexology can offer patients solutions that can alleviate symptoms of mood disorders and help our patients enjoy, and lead productive lives.

Naturopathic doctors spend ample time listening to each patients’ story.  We know that each person is unique and we need to understand the challenges they face.  Some challenges include chronic stress, marriage problems, financial worries, or caring for an aging parent.  Also their symptoms vary from difficulty sleeping, palpitations, to lack of enjoyment of activities, and excessive worry. 

Neurotransmitters are biomarkers for the nervous system.  Mood, the ability to sleep, effectively manage stress/fear, and mental focus are a function of our neurological biochemistry.  As a Naturopathic Doctor I am able to assess the neurotransmitters by measuring urinary neurotransmitters.  The neurotransmitters I can measure are serotonin, dopamine, norepinephrine, epinephrine, Gaba, glutamate and PEA.  As necessary, I’m able to modify these neurotransmitters with natural medicines to ensure optimal health.

Vitamin D is manufactured from sunshine.  Since we serve patients from the Merrimack Valley and Southern New Hampshire, their exposure to sun may be inadequate.  Vitamin D supplementation can help relieve clinical depression in patients who have low serum 25-hydroxyvitamin levels.  As a supplement, Vitamin D3 is preferred to Vitamin D2 because it is considered safer when take in large amounts. 

Magnesium has a higher requirement for people under excess stress.  Magnesium has a calming affect on the body.  It has the ability to relax tense muscles and lower blood pressure.

Vitamin B12 serves as a mood stabilizer.  Research has shown B12 has shown promise as a regulator of disturbed sleep.  No side effects, cautions and contraindications have been reported.  It can be taken during pregnancy.  Its boost of energy is an added benefit for those feeling lethargic.

Zinc is needed by the brain for healthy cognitive functions, including memory, attention, and mood.  Patients diagnosed with mood disorders often have zinc deficiencies.  Supplements of zinc appear to reduce fatigue, mood swings and appetite changes

Diets are reviewed with each patient.  Foods rich in vitamin D, magnesium, vitamin B12 and zinc are encouraged.  Here's a short list:

High in Vitamin D

• Cod Liver Oil

• Herring

• SILK Light Plain Soy Milk

• Vitamin D Fortified Orange Juice

High in Magnesium

• Black Beans

• Brocolli

• Peanuts

• Okra

High in B12

• Mollack

• Beef Liver

• Trout

• Salmon

High in Zinc

• Oysters

• Beef Pot Roast

• Turkey

• Pumpkin Seeds

More and more of our patients are dealing with mood disorders than ever before.  Naturopathic medicine offers comprehensive care for patients interested in treatment with natural medicine.  This includes patients who only want to take a pharmaceutical only at last resort as well as patients that are currently on pharmaceuticals but still have unresolved symptoms.  Patients desiring quicker results can add acupuncture, massage, exercise, nutrition or reflexology to their treatment with the other fine practitioners at Firsthealth. 

-- Dr. Tara Greaves, ND

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