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EPA - This supplement tops my list of stress-reducing, anxiety-relieving and depression- busting natural resources. It's one of the Omega 3 fatty acids found in fish oil For the past couple of years, I have been recommending this particular supplement to clients and have witnessed the real and positive difference that it can make in the lives of those who regularly take it. In fact, there is a large body of evidence that pure EPA does indeed stabilise mood, improve mental functioning and help us handle anxiety and stress more effectively. EPA supplementation has shown itself to be of benefit not only to those experiencing stress, but also to individuals suffering from depression, bi-polar disorder (manic depression) and mood swings. Additionally, EPA has been shown to improve memory, concentration and mental processing. EPA has also been shown to be of help in successfully treating skin conditions such as acne, eczema and psoriasis. Though bottles labelled 'EPA' may be readily purchased from most health food stores, they most often contain too high a proportion of DHA mixed in with the EPA. Almost all of the research has been conducted with pure EPA and so, when choosing to supplement, it is important to select a fish oil high in EPA and low in DHA in order to gain the maximum benefit. UK residents can check www.mind1st.co.uk when considering purchasing EPA, while those outside the UK will need to go online to locate a supplier. In my experience, it really is worth the effort, and the price. St John's Wort - Often called 'Nature's Prozac', St John's Wort is also sometimes referred to as 'the sunshine vitamin', though it is not a vitamin but a herbal supplement. For centuries St John's Wort has been used to treat mental disorders such as depression and, though not recommended in cases of major depression, it has demonstrated its ability to successfully and beneficially influence mild to moderate depression, anxiety and stress. It is thought that the active agent in St John's Wort works by preventing neurons or brain cells from re-absorbing serotonin - commonly referred to as 'the happiness molecule' - thereby stimulating an abundance of this essential, mood-influencing chemical messenger in the brain. Some researchers have suggested that it works by reducing the quantity of a specific protein that is involved in the healthy functioning of the immune system. But no matter exactly how it achieves its remarkable results, it does indeed appear to have a had a marked beneficial effect on clients who have given it an honest trial. Because St John's Wort can inter-react with certain medications, do remember to check with your health advisor before taking this powerful supplement. That taken care of, you can look forward to feeling the results within a few short weeks. Vitamin B Complex - In order for the nervous system to be regulated in a healthy way, these vitamins are absolutely essential. Indeed, without these essential nutrients, not only would we cease to function mentally, but eventually everything would grind to a halt. Vitamins B1, B6 and B12 are needed for the effective functioning of the brain, as well as the whole nervous system. In fact, stress, anxiety and depression -- together with fatigue and lethargy -- can result from a deficiency of any of the B vitamins. In an age of convenience and fast foods, with its emphasis on marketing and profit, it can be difficult to obtain a sufficient quantity and quality of these important nutrients. Also, since each of the B vitamins works in close synergy with the others, a deficiency in any one B vitamin can provoke poor functioning of the others - even if they are in abundant supply in the diet. Because of this, it is wisest to take the B vitamins in a complete complex. Any excess of the B vitamins is easily excreted in the urine. Make certain you check the label before you buy, though. Because vitamin B6 is relatively expensive to produce, really cheap B complex preparations often contain only small amounts of this important vitamin. Also, since vitamin B12 in particular is not easily absorbed when taken orally, look for a preparation that ideally has its vitamins in 'chelated' form. This simply means that the vitamins have been bonded with amino acids so that they can be efficiently absorbed and utilised by the body. Of course, chelated vitamins do cost a bit more, but it is well worth that little bit extra. In the final analysis, the really important thing is not what we consume, but what we absorb. Give these supplements a try for just three months and notice how your mood and mental functioning change and improve. IMPORTANT: Information contained in this article is not a replacement for proper nutritional or medical advice. Since certain supplements are contra-indicated for some individuals, especially those taking other medication, before beginning any programme of supplementation you are advised to visit your doctor or other qualified health care professional.
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Peter Field is a leading British hypno-psychotherapist who practices in Birmingham and London, England. He is a Fellow of the Royal Society fo Health, and a Member of the British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy. More of his interesting and informative articles can be found on his website: www.peterfieldhypnotherapy.co.uk
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