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Dr. Bob is Robert Hsiung, MD,
bob@dr-bob.orgShown: posts 1 to 5 of 5. This is the beginning of the thread.
Posted by Kerry on June 13, 2000, at 14:12:16
A thought occurred to me and it may explain why my pill doctor keeps prescribing SSRIs for me. I have a problem controlling my consumption of carbs (, breads and sweet but not so much fruits and vegetables.)I tend to reach for carbs when I'm feeling bad (and when they're accessible). Don't carbs trigger the release of serotonin? I thought I read that somewhere. Maybe I'm completely off base, as I'm not as informed as most of you folks. Anyways, it seems that if this is the case, that perhaps an SSRI combined with something else could ease my depression/dysthymia (like many of you, general anxiety and social anxiety too). Input appreciated.
Posted by Rockets on June 13, 2000, at 21:35:50
In reply to Carbohydrates and Serotonin, posted by Kerry on June 13, 2000, at 14:12:16
I have read that it is common to want to eat carbs when on ssri's. Best to stick to a healthy diet and at least walk once a day.
Posted by Janice on June 13, 2000, at 22:34:10
In reply to Carbohydrates and Serotonin, posted by Kerry on June 13, 2000, at 14:12:16
Hello Kerry,
Have you always craved these types of carbohydrates (before the SSRI)? I have read somewhere at sometime that pasta and similar carbs act as anti-depressants.
But more importantly, you may want to check out a hypoglycemic diet? A lady posting a few weeks ago said she completely got rid of her depression by eating a hypoglycemic diet. I believe craving the type of carbohydrates you do is one of THE major symptom for this disorder.
I'm far from an expert on the topic, but it may be something you want to look into Kerry.
Best of luck to you, Janiceps I try to follow this diet and it helps me.
Posted by ruth on June 15, 2000, at 16:16:59
In reply to Re: Carbohydrates and Serotonin, posted by Janice on June 13, 2000, at 22:34:10
Kerry,
I've been experimenting a lot with how my diet
effects my depression. If you're interested in
more information on this, a great book is
POTATOES NOT PROZAC (although I do take prozac..I hope
to not have to take it forever). The woman who
wrote this book also has a webstie, check her out
at 'radiantrecovery.com'. Another good book that
just came out that addresses the topic is
"Surviving Your Anti-depressants" or something like
that (I can find out the exact title if you're
interested, just can't remember it at this exact
moment). Both books talk about how simple carbs
(stuff made with white flour and sugary stuff like
candy, cakes, etc.) contribute to depression, and
how eating protein with more complex carbohydrates
(whole grain stuff, vegetables, etc) can help treat
depression. I have found that cutting back
drastically on sugar and white flour has helped me
a lot. I used to crave and eat all that stuff like
crazy, and I'm sure it was my low seratonin that fueled
those cravings...I mean I'm not perfect, but I do feel
an improvement!Let me know if you need any more info.
Ruth
Posted by jbird on June 16, 2000, at 9:32:37
In reply to Re: Carbohydrates and Serotonin, posted by ruth on June 15, 2000, at 16:16:59
I think "The Anti-depressant Survial Program" is the title of the book you mentioned. Both of those books are very interesting. I'm going to try the program and see how it works, although it is hard for me to get the right balance of protein since I am a vegetarian - I tend to prefer carbos!
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