EPA - This Omega 3 fatty acid, derived from fish oil, heads the natural supplement pack in terms of its ability to reduce the ill affects of stress and anxiety and alleviate mild to moderate depressionI have been singing the praises of this particular supplement to clients for a couple of years now, and have seen first hand the difference it can make in the lives of those who regularly take it. In fact, there is a large body of evidence that pure EPA does indeed stabilise mood, improve mental functioning and help us handle anxiety and stress more effectively.EPA supplementation has shown itself to be of benefit not only to those experiencing stress, but also to individuals suffering from depression, bi-polar disorder (manic depression) and mood swings. Additionally, EPA has been shown to improve memory, concentration and mental processing. EPA has also been shown to be of help in successfully treating skin conditions such as acne, eczema and psoriasis.Though bottles labelled ‘EPA’ may be readily purchased from most health food stores, they most often contain too high a proportion of DHA mixed in with the EPA. Almost all of the research has been conducted with pure EPA and so, when choosing to supplement, it is important to select a fish oil high in EPA and low in DHA in order to gain the maximum benefit. UK residents can check www.mind1st.co.uk when considering purchasing EPA, while those outside the UK will need to go online to locate a supplier. In my experience, it really is worth the effort, and the price.St John’s Wort - Often called ‘Nature’s Prozac’, St John’s Wort is also sometimes referred to as ‘the sunshine vitamin’, though it is not a vitamin but a herbal supplement.For centuries St John’s Wort has been used to treat mental disorders such as depression and, though not recommended in cases of major depression, it has demonstrated its ability to successfully and beneficially influence mild to moderate depression, anxiety and stress.It is thought that the active agent in St John’s Wort works by preventing neurons or brain cells from re-absorbing serotonin - commonly referred to as ‘the happiness molecule’ - thereby stimulating an abundance of this essential, mood-influencing chemical messenger in the brain. Some researchers have suggested that it works by reducing the quantity of a specific protein that is involved in the healthy functioning of the immune system.But whatever its mechanism, it certainly does appear to have had a remarkable effect on the many clients I have recommended it to.Because St John’s Wort can inter-react with certain medications, do remember to check with your health advisor before taking this powerful supplement.That taken care of, you can look forward to feeling the results within a few short weeks.Vitamin B Complex - The B complex vitamins are needed for the healthy regulation of the nervous system. Indeed, without these essential nutrients, not only would we cease to function mentally, but eventually everything would grind to a halt.In particular, vitamins B1, B6, and B12 are essential for the proper functioning of the brain and of the entire nervous system. In fact, stress, anxiety and depression — together with fatigue and lethargy — can result from a deficiency of any of the B vitamins.In today’s age of processed and de-natured convenient foods, it may be difficult to achieve sufficient quantities of these essential substances. Also, since each of the B vitamins works in close synergy with the others, a deficiency in any one B vitamin can provoke poor functioning of the others - even if they are in abundant supply in the diet. Because of this, it is wisest to take the B vitamins in a complete complex. Since the B vitamins are water-soluble, any excess is readily excreted in the urine.Make certain you check the label before you buy, though. Cheap vitamin B complex can often be short in vitamin B6, since this is a relatively expensive vitamin to produce. Also, since vitamin B12 in particular is not easily absorbed when taken orally, look for a preparation that ideally has its vitamins in ‘chelated’ form. This simply means that the vitamins have been bonded with amino acids so that they can be efficiently absorbed and utilised by the body. Of course, chelated vitamins do cost a bit more, but it is well worth that little bit extra.After all, what is really important is not so much what we swallow, but what we actually absorb.Give these supplements a try for just three months and notice how your mood and mental functioning change and improve.IMPORTANT: This Information is not a replacement for medical or nutritional advice. Since certain supplements are contra-indicated for some individuals, especially those taking other medication, before beginning any programme of supplementation you are advised to visit your doctor or other qualified health care professional.—One of the leading practitioners of hypno-psychotherapy in the UK today, Peter Field has practices in both London and Birmingham, England. He is a Fellow of the Royal Society of Health and a Member of the British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy. More of his absorbing and informative articles can be found on his website: www.peterfieldhypnotherapy.co.uk

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