Eating a nutrient dense diet is the best kind of medicine to prevent disease and help keep you at your best. It can be difficult depending on your region and access (and cost!) to regularly get all the nutrients you need. With that in mind, today we are sharing some of the best supplements for mental health and wellness. We at Viva Wellness love good food and try to be very conscious of what goes in our bodies and the impact so of course we’re sharing some options with you!

As you look through these options, please keep in mind that you should always consult with a licensed physician before you begin any regimen that includes supplements, herbs or medication for optimal results. A licensed physician will be able to take into account your personal medical history and risk factors. They will be able to warn you of any potentially dangerous interactions between supplements and medications you may be taking, or how your supplements may impact any existing medical conditions.

Here are some of our favorite picks of supplements for mental health and wellness:

St. John’s Wort may ease depression

St. John’s Wort is used widely in certain areas of the world, like Europe, as a treatment option for depression. The scientific research is mixed but medical providers will not recommend using St. John’s Wort as a standalone treatment for depression. It has been shown to have some serious adverse effects in combination with medications, particularly antidepressants.

How about a little Kava?

Long used in rituals and ceremonies in the Pacific, Kava can promote relaxation and restfulness, which means it could potentially be a helpful adjunct to treatment for anxiety and related conditions. Fair warning, however, there are concerns about its impact on the liver so the experts recommend consuming Kava (most people make tea) sporadically to reduce risk of complications.

Saffron is not only good for cooking

While it’s still too early to definitively say that saffron is an adequate treatment for depression, research demonstrates that saffron may be as effective as some antidepressants in lifting mood . That being said, much more research needs to be done in order to bolster it as a evidence-based treatment. But, don’t let that stop you from making paella a regular part of your eating habits.

A cup of chamomile tea may be good for your mental health

Chamomile, long favored in its tea form, has been known to promote relaxation, reduce anxiety, improve sleep and have positive effects on digestive health. It has a wide range of uses, with little negative impact for many. However, it has been shown to interact negatively with blood thinners. People who are allergic to plants like ragweed and other plants may also be more prone to an allergic response to chamomile.

 

Go nuts for some nuts!

Magnesium, which nuts have a lot of, has long been shown to be effective in mood management. It also helps promote higher cognitive functioning such as focus and clarity making it one of the most important supplements for mental health and wellness. Obviously, those who are allergic should steer clear. A lot of modern diets are deficient in magnesium, which has been thought to contribute to muscle cramps, headaches, depression, irritability and even psychosis. You can read a psychiatrist’s take on why magnesium is such an important supplement for mental health and wellness.

There are many other nutrients and supplements for mental health and wellness to choose from. In the future we hope to share of those with you. Until then, if you are considering using any of these supplements, please consult with a licensed physician before starting any new regimen to address any potential complications.

If you’d like to learn more about the power of food on your wellness, contact us for a health coaching appointment to get started!