We live in a world that turns to the prescription pad faster than the fridge for medicine. Certainly there are times medicine is absolutely necessary. But too often we overlook natural ways that could improve the way we feel.

Take depression. The struggle is real. One in 3 Americans experience depression in their life. The result is 1 in 10 Americans are on anti-depressants. And for some people, that might be their only hope.

But before you reach for the bottle, at least consider some factors that could be causing those feelings. Often times there is not just one thing… nutrition, hormones, inflammation, digestion might all contribute. 

For instance, new research is emerging that connects emotional and psychiatric health to problems in the gut. If the problem is in your body and not your mind, then you have the ability to heal your body and allow energy, focus and joy to return. One study has linked gluten to depression. Inflammatory foods can lead to elevated stress levels. Hormones like cortisol and insulin can negatively impact depression symptoms.

Sleep and Exercise are important. So is learning to manage your stress. Eating whole, real food and eliminating sugar can also help. In fact, certain food is packed with nutrients that have been proven to give us a mood boost.

I recently shared 4 foods that boost your mood on Charlotte Today… Take a few minutes to watch this and see how food can actually help you feel better!