Nutrition and digestion are undeniably important to sound health. And
gastrointestinal (GI) function is specifically and intricately connected with depression and mood disorders through a variety of different mechanisms.

Researchers have proposed that the link between brain function and malabsorption, for example, is responsible for the increased incidence of depression in chronic digestive disorders such as celiac disease.1,2 In fact, a pediatric expert has noted that children with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) are often diagnosed and treated for depression before their GI condition is accurately detected.3

Hypochlorhydria, a condition of chronic low gastric acidity in the stomach, is commonly associated with indigestion, bloating, and flatulence. Low gastric acidity can lead to bacterial overgrowth in the small intestine, which interferes with protein digestion and reduces the availability of key pathways for important amino acids--possibly triggering brain chemical imbalances directly linked with depression.4

The balance of yeasts found in the intestine is also crucial. Evidence suggests that one such yeast, Candida albicans, may activate depressive symptoms by promoting ethanol production, a known central nervous
system depressant. Behavior changes are also associated with Candida's inherent toxin--canditoxin--and/or by its tendency to compete with the host organism for essential dietary nutrients.5,6 In general, malabsorption of nutrients and vitamins in the digestive process can result in a wide array of critical imbalances that can play a role in depression.

The Comprehensive Digestive Stool Analysis (CDSA) evaluates digestion, absorption, intestinal function and microbial flora, possibly revealing fundamental causes and contributing factors involved in the onset of
depression.

Related Information:
Depression and Amino Acids
Depression and Toxins and Nutrients
Depression and Vitamins
Depression and Fatty Acids

References:
1 Hallert C, Astrom J. Psychic disturbances in adult coeliac disease. II. Psychological findings. Scand J Gastroenterol 1982;17(1):21-4.

2 Addolorato G, Stefanini GF, Capristo E, Caputo F, Gasbarrini A, Gasbarrini G. Anxiety and depression in adult untreated celiac subjects and in patients affected
by inflammatory bowel disease: a personality "trait" or a reactive illness. Hepatogastroenterology
1996;43(12):1513-1517.

3 Buller HA. Problems in diagnosis of IBD in children. Neth J Med 1997;50(2):S8-S11.

4 Cater RE 2d. The clinical importance of
hypochlorhydria (a consequence of chronic Helicobacter infection): its possible etiological role in mineral and amino acid malabsorption, depression, and other
syndromes. Med Hypotheses 1992;39(4):375-383.

5 Crook WG. Depression associated with Candida albicans infections [letter]. JAMA 1984;251(22):

6 Edwards AE. Depression and Candida. JAMA 1985;253(23):3400.

Call to set up a nutritional consultation so that tests can be performed and a comprehensive strategy of lifestyle, dietary modification and nutrient supplementation can be implemented to aid you in reversing this disorder.

For an appointment, contact our office at: 800-956-7083 and visit our web site www.completehealthinstitute.com go to lab tests and click on appropriate test for information.

Dr. Rispoli, Ph.D., L Ac. has had a clinical practice for over 20 years. Her programs work because she is so thorough in testing and providing a nutritional approach. Remember that the body can heal itself if given the proper nutrients.

The information herein is not intended as diagnosis, treatment or a cure. Should you have a medical condition please seek the advice of your medical doctor.