A news article published in 2017 reported that, according to the latest data, a staggering 12.7 percent of all US citizens over the age of 12 were taking antidepressants. Thrive Global, who reported these figures, stated that:

Originally published on www.kellybroganmd.com

The food you eat directly affects your brain

When mental fatigue hits you, choose from the most effective natural remedies.

Researchers have found that certain areas of the brain -- the nucleus accumbens, orbitofrontal cortex, amygdala, insula and anterior cingulate cortex -- weigh the costs and benefits of performing a task. If the energy needed is higher than what one gets out of doing an activity (satisfaction, reward, praise), mental fatigue occurs.^[i]

One study highlights the efficacy of Ayahuasca, a native Amazonian plant, as a powerful antidepressant in treatment-resistant depression

A study published in Psychological Medicine found a positive correlation between a single dose of ayahuasca and a significant and rapid reduction in depression severity amongst patients with moderate to severe depression.^[i]

We all know that getting a massage is relaxing and that scents such as lavender and sweet orange smell great, but did you know that these simple, sensual modalities may be a pathway out of depression?

As we age, maintaining cognitive function becomes an increasing concern. But what if a simple berry extract could help keep our minds sharp? New research suggests wild blueberry extract may offer cognitive benefits for healthy older adults.

Introduction to Cognitive Aging

In research from Washington State University, cannabis led to reductions in compulsions by 60% and anxiety by 52%, with higher doses and greater CBD concentrations associated with greater benefits for obsessive-compulsive disorder

Cannabis, also known as medical marijuana, has been established as a safe and effective pain remedy, especially for patients suffering the painful consequences of cancer, multiple sclerosis, Parkinson's disease and other disorders. A study published in the European Journal of Internal Medicine found that it can significantly slash chronic pain without serious adverse effects in adults over 65 years.^[i]

U.S. health officials find a strong link between early instances of childhood trauma and adult chronic diseases ranging from heart disease and asthma to kidney disease and depression

Originally published on kellybroganmd.com

Did your doctor or friendly pharmacist tell you that the flu vaccine could put your mental health at risk?

Originally published on www.kellybroganmd.com

I know that strategic medication tapering can be a ticket to an authentic experience of yourself. I get feedback like this, every week:

Millions believe depression is caused by 'serotonin deficiency,' but where is the science in support of this theory?

"Depression is a serious medical condition that may be due to a chemical imbalance, and Zoloft works to correct this imbalance."

Herein lies the serotonin myth.

New York Times best-selling author presents a radical alternative to psychotropic meds: discerning the meaning in your symptoms and your struggle as a way to reclaim your health and your self

For years, we've been telling ourselves that our difficult feelings--sadness, rage, shame, intensity, worry--are somehow "not okay." And, all too often, we've relied on the promise of pharmaceuticals to tamp them down. The fact is, though, that these feelings are a vital part of our experience. They are real. And those of us who feel them most strongly are the canaries in the coalmine--sensitive to things that are seriously wrong in the world today.

How many people do you know who are on a low-fat, high carbohydrate diet? How many people do you know who are on antidepressants? Could there be a link?

Julia Ross, a clinical psychologist and author of The Mood Cure, sees a connection between the skyrocketing rates of depression and the diet obsession in this country. Statistics show:

For years, stimulants like Ritalin have been viewed as essential, front-line medications for ADHD treatment. But a new landmark study reveals a shockingly effective, safer alternative derived from food

You've probably heard about the microbiome, but what about the myco-biome? You play host to trillions of bacteria, but it turns out the fungi in your gut may also play a role in cognitive decline

Originally published on www.madinamerica.com

In a world where ADHD medications often come with a laundry list of side effects, could the answer to managing this complex disorder be as simple as a daily dose of vitamins and minerals?

The ADHD Dilemma: A Growing Concern

Originally published on www.humanoriginproject.com

A supplement that stops the breakdown of the acetylcholine neurotransmitter in the brain is a useful technique to trigger lucid dreams

Originally published on www.thevaccinereaction.org by Barbara Cáceres

Originally published on www.doctormurray.com

What if in the treatment of depression, food prescriptions replaced antidepressant drugs?

There are so many nutritional approaches and natural products with proven clinical benefit in boosting positive mood that it is only a matter of time. A new study with blueberries is quite interesting as it looked at the impact of blueberry consumption on higher brain function and mood in children and young adults.

For the over 6 million Americans suffering from heart failure, depression is an all too common burden - one doctors usually treat with medication notorious for their serious side effects. But what if there was an equally effective treatment that didn't involve more pills? A groundbreaking new study provides the most compelling evidence yet for a drug-free alternative.

In a world where brain health is increasingly under siege, could the answer to cognitive decline be hiding in the humble pomegranate? A groundbreaking study suggests that a few drops of pomegranate seed oil might be all it takes to give our aging minds a fighting chance.

Want to keep your brain sharp as you age? Exercising for as little as 10 minutes a few times per week can help stop mental decline in its tracks

Engaging in regular exercise is one of the healthiest habits you can adopt, regardless of your age or current physical condition. Studies have shown that moderately intense aerobic exercise, like taking a brisk walk, is safe for most people and can strengthen bones and muscles, reduce your risks for disease and even improve brain health,^[i] forestalling the cognitive decline associated with aging.