Tag Archives: DHA

Omega-3 Can Prevent or Treat Postpartum Depression

pregnancy vitamins

The week of July 20 is Healthy Pregnancy Week at DietsInReview.com.

Postpartum depression (PPD) is different from the “baby blues” that effect up to 80% of women following childbirth. PPD is clinical depression, diagnosed using DSM-IV-TR diagnostic criteria and effects approximately 1 in 10 women following child birth. PPD may or may not include Postpartum Psychosis, made famous by Andrea Yates, or postpartum anxiety. If symptoms are interfering with your functioning or you believe you are experiencing any hallucinations, please seek the help of a mental health professional. Many people find it is helpful to talk to a caring counselor during any life transition. Other moms may prefer to use diet and exercise to help them overcome PPD. (more…)

Healthy Brains Come From Healthy Food

We have all heard the term “brain food” used to identify foods that can increase the health and functioning of your brain. Fish is the most well-known brain food due to the Omega-3 fatty acids, which promote brain cell health. Fish also contains Omega-3 DHA which keeps brain cell membranes healthy and aids communication within brain cells.

Other lesser known brain foods include brightly colored produce high in antioxidants, including strawberries, raspberries, blackberries, prunes, and my favorite blueberries. Whole grains and whole grain products such as bread, rice, and pasta contain B vitamins and magnesium which assist normal brain and nerve functioning.


Feeding your brain can increase your mental energy. Mental capacity is what we use to organize our lives. When your mental energy is low, you’re likely to become more forgetful, distracted, and have difficulty thinking and completing tasks. Maximum mental energy is derived from oscillation; changing channels mentally permits different parts of the brain to be activated while others rest and can facilitate creativity. (more…)