Do amino acids help anxiety/depression?

[pheobe13]

Hi there,

Was wondering if anyone's had any success using amino acid supplements?
For depression/anxiety type issues? (Such as b'calmed)

The idea is that the amino acids give your body the stuff it needs to make it's own happy chemicals. This appeals to me more than anti-depressants.

Are amino acids safe to take every day?

Any feedback would be great. Thanks.

[auntjudyg]

Have you read Julie Ross's The Mood Cure? But, yes, I do think they can help tremendously. A good start while you research this, if you are not doing so already, is to make sure you are eating enough protein . . . at least 15 grams at meals (figuring 3 meals a day).

[sidnee74]

I agree with auntjudyg, "The Mood Cure" is great - its diet and supplement recommendations are helping me control my depression naturally. Definitely check into getting that book!! It does talk extensively about getting enough protein (which is where you find aminos).

Best!

[pheobe13]

Thanks guys,

I've got the book out of the library, as well as Patrick Holford's Nutrition for the mind which has a lot about amino acids and omega 3s in it. I think I'm gonna give it a try before I take the meds the doc gave me. Thank you for the advice

[pheobe13]

I thought I'd add that I'm vegetarian and only really eat eggs (and small amount of cheese) I have soya milk n stuff so I get protein there. Not sure if I ever eat enough tho..