Gillian McKeith's Food Bible (328 page)

Foods that cause slumps in energy and mood. Sugar, alcohol, caffeine, refined carbohydrates, and processed foods all cause highs followed by lows. You may crave these comfort foods, but they will perpetuate feelings of sluggishness and depression in the long term.

HERBS AND SUPPLEMENTS

Supplement with St. John’s wort. This can keep levels of serotonin up and has been found to be as effective as antidepressant medications but with fewer side effects. Do not take this if you are on other medications.

Drink lemon balm, peppermint, and chamomile teas. These all have antidepressive and calming properties.

Supplement with fish oils. These are important for normalizing brain chemistry and are often deficient in those with depressive disorders.

EXTRA TIPS

Get outside in daylight every morning. This is important for setting the body’s rhythms and moods.

Exercise every day, preferably outside. Aim for at least 20 minutes daily. Do anything you enjoy: cycling, walking, jogging, rollerblading, skipping, and rebounding are all good for getting the heart rate up and triggering the release of endorphins in the brain. These are feel-good chemicals released during exercise.

Use full-spectrum lightbulbs. Light is measured in lux; a normal lightbulb will light a room to up to about 800 lux. A room lit with full spectrum lighting will have about 10,000 lux. You can also help to maximize your light intake by keeping curtains and blinds open and by working near a window.

Investigate light boxes and light therapy.

SEBORRHEA OR SEBORRHEIC DERMATITIS

Seborrhea refers to red, inflamed, scaly patches on the skin and scalp caused by overactive sebaceous glands (oil-secreting glands). Areas most commonly affected are the scalp, face, and chest. In babies it often appears as cradle cap.

CAUSES

Nutrient deficiencies, particularly vitamin A, B vitamins, essential fats, and biotin, may be a factor.

Yeast overgrowth and lack of stomach acid are both common in those with seborrhea. It may also indicate that the body is trying to eliminate wastes through the skin, so colon and liver cleansing would be indicated.

Food intolerances may also be a problem.

Action plan

Great nutrition can really help with this condition.

EAT/DRINK