More and more research is showing that depression may be an inflammatory illness.  We know that chronic pain creates changes in the brain, that low levels of omega-3 fats are associated with depression, and that inflammatory chemicals called cytokines have receptors in the brain that can create depression.  What all of these have in common is inflammation.  Inflammation is basically a response of the immune system.  The immune system, when creating inflammation, sends signals to the brain that cause "sickness behavior"--in other words, behavior that makes you want to hide away and heal--in short, depression.

This response makes sense if we are having an inflammatory response due to a serious injury or an infection.  If we are living a lifestyle that creates chronic inflammation, however, it can result in long term depression.  Here is a link to an excellent commentary on the subject that just came out.

Here are the 4 basic things you can do to lower systemic inflammation:

1.  See a chiropractor--follow this linkto see how chiropractic rapidly lowers inflammatory cytokines.

2.  Begin taking a high quality omega-3 product--here's the best one I know of.

3.  Begin a moderate, regular exercise program--here are some tips on how.

4   Eat right!  Use the tools here to learn how.

I am constantly amazed at the power of these simple steps in eliminating depression.  If these alone don't work for you, try 5-HTP--learn more here. (NOTE: We sell a great 5-HTP product in our store.)