Unfortunately, as seen on David Wolfe, 6.7 percent of Americans or 14.8 million people older than 18 will suffer from a depressive disorder this year. In order to treat this mental health problem, most of these people will be prescribed over-the-counter meds, such as Prozac, by their doctors. However, these medications are known to come with specific side effects so taking them could be a double-edged sword.
The Uses of Prozac
This oral medication is a commonly-prescribed drug for depression, but also for other health issues, including OCD, panic disorders, bulimia, and PMDD. Unfortunately, it does come with pretty serious side effects. Check them out in the list shown below:
- Dry mouth
- Dizziness
- Nervousness
- Drowsiness
- Nausea
- Upset stomach
- Constipation
- Increase in the appetite
- Changes in weight
- Cold-like symptoms
Other more serious symptoms associated with this medication are the following:
- Rigid muscles
- Fever
- Sweating
- Heartbeat problems
- Tremors
- Vomiting
- Loss of appetite
- Diarrhea
- Loss of coordination
- Poor focus
- Headaches
- Weakness
- Confusion
- Hallucinations
- Swollen face or tongue
- Purple or red skin rash in the upper body
Could Cashews Be the New Prozac?
Taking into account the side effects of Prozac, a large part of ongoing research is focused on finding a more natural and effective treatment for depression. David Wolfe claim that the answer may lie in cashews!
Namely, cashews are rich in tryptophan and niacin and two handfuls of cashews contain enough tryptophan for a therapeutic effect on the mood. The precise amount is 3/5 oz. of cashews or approximately half a cup. This will deliver 470 mg of tryptophan in your body.
These findings may be helpful for people who need or want a more natural approach to treating their depression. Cashews are a healthy and tasty snack and they also offer a lot of other health advantages when regularly consumed. Some of them include:
- Healthy heart
- Healthy bones
- Good oral health
- Relief from diabetes
- Healthy nerves and muscles
- Reduction of anemia symptoms
- Help with gallstones
- Rich in antioxidants
Before heading out, do not to check out the video shown below where a woman who took niacin successfully fought off her depression. Niacin is present in cashews!
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