Dr. Ameet Aggarwal on Depression, Anxiety & Mental Health

Did you know that depression is not only an imbalance of chemicals in the brain? Neurotransmitters, which are chemicals responsible for mood and other factors in your body, include names like serotonin, dopamine, GABA and norepinephrine. When these chemicals are out of balance, symptoms such as depression, anxiety, insomnia and paranoia can occur. It is important to look at these areas when treating depression, anxiety and other mood disorders:

–      Digestive function in depression because your digestive system is responsible for producing a lot of serotonin and converting other neurotransmitters.

–      Liver health because liver balances hormones and cleanses the blood – all important tasks in balancing health. Liver tests from a conventional laboratory will not necessarily show the liver imbalance I`m talking about. It`s important to get the your liver assessed by someone who is familiar with holistic diagnosis of your whole body.

–      Adrenal health because adrenal glands play an important role in balancing cortisol production, which affects levels of serotonin, dopamine, GABA as well as thyroid function. An underactive thyroid or exhausted adrenal gland can lead to emotional “dis-ease”.

–      Nutrition is important in providing essential nutrients to ensure optimal brain chemistry. Poor nutrition affects important organs in your body, including adrenal glands, thyroid function, liver health and all other organs. Some people are sensitive to foods which might trigger an imbalance of chemicals in the body. Have your diet assessed by a qualified naturopathic doctor. Improper nutrition can lead to poor concentration, lack of sleep, fatigue, depression, anxiety, frequent infections and chronic disease.

Find the time to care for your health. A better mood enables you to become more proactive in your life and gives you advantages at work, performance and socially as well. People are attracted to happy people. Do you want more of that?

 
Ameet Aggarwal ND is a naturopathic doctor, advanced Bowen Therapist and practices Gestalt psychotherapy in Nairobi and Nanyuki. Book your appointment through +254 727 701002 or email ameet@fimafrica.org. Read more about naturopathic medicine on http://retreats.fimafrica.org and stay engaged with health tips on www.facebook.com/healthretreatsafrica.