As reported in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition, there is a link between a low-fat diet and higher rates of depression, suicide, and hostility. I have researched into this topic because I had a cholesterol test done and the nurses who read me my results said I had below normal cholesterol levels. For a moment I was very proud considering most grown adults in America has the opposite problem of high cholesterol. The nurses, while remaining unspecific, said that there were health problems associated with low cholesterol.
Finding this article has opened my eyes to a biological function that could be responsible for one of my greatest adversaries, depression and anxiety.
I am proactive with my physical health as well as my mental and spiritual health. I practice mind-body disciplines of yoga and Tai Chi and have a regular meditation practice. These do wonders for my moods and overall well-being. After a period of time on earth, one encounters many experiences that test the endurance of one's spirit. I have come to think of my occasional surprise visit by the dark cloud of depression or anxiety as a normal human condition. It wasn't until a couple of weeks ago and this past week when I read the connection between cholesterol and depression that I have begun to consider this a hindrance due to biological function as well.
Part of my pro-active plan is to take a daily Fish Oil supplement to build up my cholesterol levels and monitor my mental outlook over the course of the month.
An excellent result would be overall improved mental outlook with a simple change of diet. It may have a placebo effect but even placebos work. :)