More than 14.8 million people in the United States deal with depression. Conventional treatments for depression focus on prescription drugs and psychiatric counseling. Although prescription drugs have played an important role in the treatment of the disease, they involve many serious side effects which include weight gain. Weight gain is a side effect with serious health risks because in many cases the use of these drugs are prescribed on a long term basis.

There are two types of antidepressant drugs available: seratonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) and tricyclic anti-depressant drugs. About one third of individuals taking these drugs will not be helped by them or cannot tolerate the side effects and approximately fifty percent of people taking them are not depressed. A 2005 study revealed that people who were not depressed were taking the drugs for insomnia, fatigue, nerve pain, back pain and other problems.

Weight gain associated with regular intake of antidepressant drugs is believed to be due to the effect they have on the hormone serotonin, which regulates appetite. Many people report significant increases in hunger and intense cravings for starchy and sugary foods. Intense cravings for these foods, leading to rapid weight gain is caused by depleted serotonin levels in the body.

The good news is there is healthy way to restore serotonin levels and curb cravings that will not result in weight gain. This is accomplished by eating foods high in complex carbohydrates such as oatmeal, whole grain cereals, all bran, shredded wheat, muesli, oatcakes, pita bread, brown bread, whole grain pasta, yams, corn,  brown rice, peas, beans and lentils.

Replacing unhealthy meals and snacks with these types of foods will satisfy cravings and not only prevent weight gain but will aid in weight loss as well. Other things to consider are portion control and eating more slowly. Eating more slowly is an effective method of weight control because it allows the body time to signal the brain that the stomach is full.

There are several nutritional supplements that have been clinically proven to be effective against depression without the side effect of weight gain. Before discontinuing your present medication talk to your healthcare provider. Suddenly discontinuing medication can cause withdrawal symptoms. Discuss alternative treatments with your doctor.


5-Hydroxytryptophan (5-HTP) has been used effectively against depression with mild side effects such as upset stomach.

S-Adenosylmethionine (SAMe) is a substance that is naturally produced by the body. It has the ability to stimulate a number of neurotransmitters in the brain  and may help alleviate depression. Many studies have confirmed that it is well tolerated, safe and effective for depression.

 Side effects may include upset stomach and nausea. While some antidepressant have been found to cause liver damage, SAME protects the liver. Results are usually seen in one to two weeks compared with four weeks or more with most other antidepressants. Those with bipolar disorder should not use SAME because it may worsen symptoms. If you are taking antidepressant drugs consult with your doctor before taking SAME.

St. John’s Wort was the most commonly used alternative treatment for depression until its interaction with many drugs was discovered. Studies have shown it to be effective with mild to moderate depression. If you are taking antidepressant or any other medications, check with your doctor before taking this herb. Results are noticed in two to four weeks. Side effects may include stomach upset, skin rash and fatigue.

Theanine is an amino acid which is extracted from green tea. It helps increase quality of sleep and reduces stress and anxiety without causing drowsiness.

Fish oil, which is rich in omega-3 fatty acids is beneficial for depression because it helps promote a healthy nervous system and supports neurotransmitter function.