Does dieting make you feel depressed?To some, that may seem like a comical question. But the truth is if you feel that way, you are not alone. Several studies have suggested that restrictive diets and some medications for lowering cholesterol may contribute to depression.
New research on the important roles of essential fatty acids may explain this association. Essential Fatty Acids (EFAs) are fats that cannot be made by the body, but are required for health, so they must be obtained from food or supplements. When these fatty acids are missing from the diet, symptoms include dry scaly skin, poor wound healing, impaired vision and hearing, fatigue, and liver abnormalities.
Three EFA’s You Need Now
Arachidonic Acid (AA)
Found primarily in meat and animal products. Most people get adequate amounts of this fatty acid.
Linoleic Acid (LA)
Found in pumpkin seeds, sesame seeds, sunflower seeds, walnuts, wheat germ, almonds, pecans and avocados.
Alpha-Linolenic Acid (ALA)
Found in flax seeds, walnuts and wheat germ.
The ratio of these fatty acids in the body plays key roles in the proper functioning of cell membranes, hormones, and the immune system. They are especially important for healthy brain and nerve cells. In fact, essential fatty acids make up 45% of the fatty acids in the cell membranes of nerve cells. A diet low in these important nutrients could disrupt the cell membrane structure and can alter the production of important neurotransmitters such as serotonin, noradrenaline and dopamine. When these neurotransmitters are not balanced at optimal levels, it can adversely affect behavior and mood.
Most low calorie diets restrict fats without regard to the level of essential fatty acids. Essential fatty acids are burned at a higher rate when following a calorie-restricted diet. The combination of increased fatty acid use and low calorie intake can create a fatty acid deficiency. A fatty acid deficiency can cause fatigue and alter mood, as well as affect the body’s ability to build lean muscle, repair tissues, and fight off infection.
At NWC Naturals® we understand the important role of essential fatty acids in the diet. That’s why we have included both linoleic and alpha-linolenic acids in the Total-Nutrition Program®. The Total-Nutrition Program® supplies you with beneficial fatty acids in each serving from whole food sources like flax seeds and wheat germ! You can also try incorporating some of the foods listed above into your diet. Regardless of the type of diet program you are following, be sure that your diet includes adequate amounts of these important fatty acids.