People who suffer from depression are often deficient in essential fatty acids. Because the brain is 60% fat, brain tissue is heavily dependent on fatty acids to control moods and behavior. The firing and receiving of messages in the brain (synapses)  are critically dependent on brain fats. Since our bodies do not manufacture most fats we are completely dependent on receiving fats through our nutritional intake.  There are 2 essential fatty acids needed by the brain, these are omega-3 and omega-6.  Both omega-3 and omega-6 are equally important and deficiencies in either group can cause problems, and should be addressed by changes in your diet.

Good sources of omega-3 from food include the following;

• cold water fish
• eggs
• chicken
• flaxseed oil
• borage seed oil
• whole-grain breads

You can also take omega-3 supplements daily.

Omega-6 comes in the form of oils. Most omega-6 oils that are being ingested today have been altered by hydrogenation processing. This processing interferes with omega-6 uptake into the brain.  The best way to get proper omega-6 is through GLA or gamma-linolenic acid. Gamma-linolenic acid or GLA, is a fatty acid found primarily in vegetable oils and it is also available as a dietary supplement.  If you choose to get your omega-6 through oils be sure the oils have not been hydrogenated.

Avoid these items;

• hydrogenated oils
• trans-fatty acids
• refined sugars

Consuming the correct levels of these two omega  fatty acids will allow the  neurotransmitters within the brain to send messages properly and lessen the chances of depression to occur.

Source=”Depression Free, naturally” by Joan Larson part 1.