Nutritional Medicine

Naturopathic physicians are experts in helping you understand how your food can be your medicine.

For people with mental health concerns, regularly scheduled meals that are rich in nutrients can significantly improve mood stability. This is key for understanding how to take control of your health and feel empowered to make good decisions that help you feel better.

There is a strong link between the quality of the food we consume and the health and wellness of our body and brain. If we eat foods that are highly processed or low in nutritional value, our body will be likely to have increased levels of inflammation and poor cellular function.

Naturopathic doctors can also help uncover individual food sensitivities or gut microbiome imbalances that might be contributing to your symptoms. There is a validated, scientifically researched connection between the gut and the brain, and proper nutrition is key in working to improve your physical and mental health.

Our doctors make informed recommendations unique to you and your needs, but talking with you about your habits, ordering detailed lab work on blood or even gut biomes to make the best possible recommendations on nutrition suited to your needs and your situation.

Nutrition for Improved Mood

People with depression or anxiety are often deficient in certain nutrients. B vitamins are used in your body during the production of neurotransmitters, and thus are very important for maintaining a healthy mood. Vitamin C is used in high levels by the adrenal glands to manage stress. Calcium and magnesium are essential for reducing muscle fatigue, and helping you get a restful night’s sleep. People with depression, anxiety, or insomnia will use extra B vitamins, vitamin C, calcium, and magnesium, so supplementing higher doses of these nutrients may be an essential part of your treatment. If you become deficient in any of these nutrients as a result of stress or poor nutrition, you can develop new symptoms of depression or anxiety.

We can give you high-dose vitamins and minerals in a capsule form to replenish your nutrient status. Intramuscular injections of vitamin B12 can give you an energy boost as well, and help to stabilize your mood.

Exercise and Nutrient-Rich Foods

The best way to prevent depression or anxiety is proper physical exercise, stress management and healthy nutrition. Some patients find that regular exercise alone can dramatically improve their mood, regulate sleep, and reduce fatigue. A diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, omega-3 oils, and lean protein will benefit your overall health, as well as your mental well-being, by providing your body and brain with the nutrients you need every day. Massage therapy and regular exercise are excellent ways to reduce stress and increase endorphins to help you feel happy and relaxed.