Managing mood-related symptoms utilizing diet, targeted nutrient supplementation, and lifestyle changes: A case series

Explore (NY). 2022 Sep-Oct;18(5):591-600. doi: 10.1016/j.explore.2021.09.006. Epub 2021 Oct 3.

Abstract

Background: The Office of Disease Prevention and Health Promotion reports that mental health disorders are one of the most "common causes of disability," affecting 18.1% of adults in the United States. This case series examines the use of diet, targeted nutrient supplementation with a focus on amino acids, and lifestyle interventions for the management of mood-related symptoms as a treatment option.

Case presentations: The three cases included a personalized amino acid therapy protocol, nutrient cofactor supplementation, and diet and lifestyle recommendations. Clinical assessment questionnaires completed by the clients at intervals during care were used to determine proper amino acid dosing. The first client is a 65-year-old Caucasian male presenting with increased stress, anxiety, depression, and sleep disturbances. A marked decrease in symptoms was experienced three months. The second client is a 24-year-old Caucasian male presenting with concentration and memory impairment, anxiety and depression, food cravings leading to binge eating of carbohydrates, low sleep quality, and unsustainable energy. A substantial decrease in symptoms was achieved in under four months. The third client is a 23-year-old Caucasian male presenting with depression, easy agitation while ruminating on negative thoughts, difficulty focusing and making decisions, poor memory, concentration, and sleep quality, gaming addiction, and low energy and motivation. The client experienced considerable relief from all symptoms in under six months.

Conclusion: The case series demonstrated marked improvement in mood-related symptoms in as little as 3-6 months for three individuals utilizing amino acid therapy along with dietary, targeted nutrient supplementation, and lifestyle choices.

Keywords: Amino acid therapy; Anxiety; Case report; Case series; Depression; Mood disorders; Personalized nutrition.

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Aged
  • Amino Acids
  • Depression
  • Diet*
  • Dietary Supplements*
  • Humans
  • Life Style
  • Male
  • Nutrients
  • Young Adult

Substances

  • Amino Acids