There is hope! There can always be hope, and if you are reading this, then let that hope come alive! Since the affliction and triggers are different in all of us, this is no simple task, but the process can be made as easy as possible in part because anti-inflammatory agents are very important here to calming the body, and in part by suggesting a simple type of fasting. Basically, it entails eliminating nearly everything but the most benign of foods (it is only for a little while to start). The process would be continued until the mood stabilizes daily. As that happens, we know something(s) we were eating, and perhaps things we were not eating, are the primary triggers in us so the process would be further continued until the signs of depression are completely gone at which point foods would be gradually added back to see what happens.

As these are normally considered harmless foods to everyone, the ones recommended to eat initially are:

• proteins: cod, sardines, walnuts (omit for known allergies to tree nuts)
• fats: olive oil
• greens: beet greens, broccoli, collard greens¹, kale¹ (raw is important, but mix raw and cooked)
• fruits: blueberries, cherries, figs, pineapple, plums (raw is important, but mix raw and cooked)
• spices: ginger root, fresh or dried parsley, onions (raw is optimal)
• drinks: water (pure and filtered, spring water preferred)

In many cases, a strict vegan diet for one or two years works wonders to improve energy levels and clear a bothersome medical condition. Some people even maintain that course for life -- truly a very healthy path though I personally feel after a two year or so cleansing period, it is likely a person could add back some non-vegan foods in small quantities (fish or fowl, for example) without suffering further negative effects. Again, the results would be carefully observed.

• Vitamin D: is a significant factor in maintaining a positive mood, and many of us who live in northern climates but don't have pale skin are unable to manufacture enough vitamin D through the skin. Furthermore, if we do not consume vitamin D fortified foods, it is entirely possible to be way low on vitamin D stores, and recent studies indicate the generally accepted daily amount is likely not enough. I quick test might be to supplement with 200 IU's to 400 IU's once a day for two or three days and see if your mood perks up within about a week's time.

¹ For those taking anticoagulants such as coumadin or warfarin, caution must be exercised. Although salicylates, vitamin A, and vitamin E block the uptake of vitamin K, it is possible the vitamin K present in asparagus, brussel sprouts, collard greens, kale, mustard greens, spinach, swiss chard, and turnip greens may interfere with anticoagulants. Vitamin K assists the liver in the process of producing coagulating proteins.