When it produces dopamine or norepinephrine, we tend to think and act more quickly and are generally more alert. To overcome a serotonin deficiency, you may need a doctor to prescribe the amino acid 5-hydroxytryptophan, and you might need between 100 and 300 mg. High protein foods, on the other hand, promote the production of dopamine and norepinephrine, which promote alertness. For hypoglycemic related depression, reduction or elimination of sugar in the diet can, by itself, single-handedly overcome the problem. You can literally work yourself out of a low mood.
Regular exercise is extremely valuable.
Many studies have shown that exercise, as little as 30 minutes of brisk walking, stimulates the production of endorphins, the body's own natural tranquilizers and mood elevators. As for depression specifically, a German study showed that inactive people are 3.15 times more likely to be depressed than those who exercised regularly. These results confirmed earlier studies. These nutritional and alternative approaches to finding the silver lining in the gray storm cloud of depression should be given about a month or so to work. By then, you should notice some improvement in your disposition and physical well-being.