Sex, Drugs, Bugs, and Turmeric: The Untold Story
Growing up immersed in Chinese culture, the Lunar New Year—or Spring Festival—has always symbolized a fresh start for me. It's a period when the icy grip of winter begins to loosen. Homes undergo a deep cleaning, new clothes are bought, hair gets a trim, and there's a collective surge of optimism about the possibilities the new year holds. Fresh from a journey to China, I'm embracing that sense of renewal as I look ahead.
But let's be real: early February can be rough for many. The days remain short, nights stretch on, and the sun—a natural mood enhancer—seems elusive. This lingering darkness isn't just a downer; it also impacts our immune systems. The main culprit? Reduced levels of vitamin D3, which our skin generates when exposed to sunlight. When we lack sufficient sunlight, our bodies ramp up melatonin production, the sleep hormone, making those already gloomy mornings even harder to face.
Less Sun, Less Vitamin D3, More Mood Swings
The lack of sunlight brings a drop in vitamin D3, leading to a heightened risk of mood swings. In fact, low D3 levels have been associated with a staggering 50% increase in suicide risk. No wonder, then, that in the past two months, four friends have shared with me that their doctors put them on antidepressants. Among them, two are weathering the stormy seas of menopause—a time when hormones wreak havoc on mood. Another is grappling with a family crisis, while the fourth is being crushed under the weight of workplace bullying. Notably, three of these women are people of color living in northern regions with limited sunlight, which further diminishes their vitamin D3 levels.
Logic might suggest that these women could benefit from adaptogens—natural substances that help balance hormones—or even bioidentical hormone replacement therapy (HRT). Ashwagandha, a cornerstone of Ayurvedic medicine, has been clinically proven to ease anxiety and depression.
But what’s the usual medical approach? Unfortunately, it often involves a swift prescription for antidepressants like Prozac or Zoloft, with little exploration of the underlying causes. Blood tests for hormone levels? Inflammation markers? Thyroid function? Omega-3 and B12 levels? Cognitive behavioral therapy? Hardly ever.
The Quick Fix: Antidepressants
It's concerning that antidepressants are frequently the go-to solution. Why? Recent studies indicate that SSRIs (Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors) like Prozac aren’t significantly more effective than turmeric in treating depression. Yes, you read that correctly—turmeric, the humble spice that gives curry its vibrant yellow hue, might be just as effective as Prozac, minus the unpleasant side effects.
Speaking of side effects, let’s address those. One friend lamented gaining 15 pounds in two months on Prozac. Another expressed frustration over a declining libido, which was already on the downturn. And it’s not just women who suffer—men also experience issues, with antidepressants often leading to loss of libido and erectile dysfunction. It’s no coincidence that Pfizer, the manufacturer of Zoloft, also produces Viagra.
By 2005, Zoloft was generating $3.3 billion annually, while Viagra consistently pulled in $2 billion. In 2013, the total sales of antidepressants in the U.S. alone reached a staggering $9.4 billion. With all this money being funneled into the problem, you’d think we’d be better off, right? Wrong.
The Grim Reality
According to Robert Whitaker’s book Mad in America, the outcomes of mental illness in the developed world are as bleak as they were in 1900—if not worse than if there were no treatment at all. Whitaker’s findings are so compelling that the Journal of the American Medical Association (JAMA) called his book “a valuable and meticulously documented study.” Astonishingly, those diagnosed with mental illness in countries like Nigeria or India, where antidepressants are less frequently used, fare better over their lifetimes than those in the U.S.
Turmeric, Mood, and Sex: A Natural Alternative
So, what about turmeric? Is it the next big thing? Hardly. The U.S. market for turmeric is estimated at just $25 million—a drop in the ocean compared to antidepressants. Why? Because turmeric can’t be patented. It’s a natural tuber, like ginger or lotus root, and has been used safely for centuries in Ayurvedic and Traditional Chinese Medicine.
A 2014 study discovered that turmeric’s active ingredient, curcumin, was nearly as effective at alleviating depression as Prozac. The best results were seen in patients who combined Prozac with curcumin, though those taking curcumin alone also experienced notable improvement.
Moreover, turmeric doesn’t just lift your spirits—it can also spice up your sex life. Curcumin, when applied topically to the groin area, has been shown to be more effective than Viagra at enhancing blood flow and treating male sexual dysfunction. Just be cautious of the bright yellow stains!
Bugs for Your Gut, Bugs for Your Brain
But turmeric isn’t the only natural remedy worth exploring. Emerging research suggests that certain strains of gut bacteria can be just as effective as Valium in reducing anxiety and stress. The gut-brain axis—a communication network between your gut and brain—is increasingly recognized as a key factor in mental health.
Studies have shown that probiotics like Lactobacillus helveticus and Bifidobacterium longum can improve anxiety, stress, and depression. In the UK, the Taymount Clinic is pioneering the use of fecal microbiota transplantation (FMT) for conditions ranging from multiple sclerosis to autism. And in China, FMT is gaining wide acceptance for treating gastrointestinal diseases and even Type 2 diabetes.
The Road to Recovery: Is Weaning Possible?
If you’re already on antidepressants and considering tapering off, it’s crucial to proceed with caution. Your brain’s neurotransmitter receptors may have become hypersensitive, and abruptly stopping could trigger a severe depressive or psychotic episode.
So, are you stuck on these drugs for life? Not necessarily. The most prudent approach is to work with an integrative psychiatrist who can help you gradually reduce your medication while addressing any underlying nutritional imbalances, gut issues, or other health concerns. You might never be able to completely stop taking your meds, but even lowering them to a less toxic level can be a significant improvement.
The Future: A New Approach to Health
Should we be waging war against Big Pharma and conventional medicine? Not entirely. Big Pharma has undoubtedly made life-saving medications widely accessible, and many of their products have dramatically improved and extended lives. I, for one, am grateful for the traditional medicine that saved both my life and my baby’s during a complicated pregnancy.
But that doesn’t mean we shouldn’t aspire to better, safer, and more effective treatments. It’s my hope that pharmaceutical companies will begin to explore new molecules and therapies that support the body in healing itself, rather than just masking symptoms. After all, patients who live longer, healthier lives are also consumers for longer.
Resources for the Journey
If you’re keen on delving deeper into these ideas, I highly recommend Dr. Kelly Brogan’s book A Mind of Your Own: The Truth About Depression and How Women Can Heal Their Bodies to Reclaim Their Lives. Dr. Brogan, a board-certified psychiatrist, has firsthand experience with the limitations of psychiatric drugs and has successfully weaned herself off them using diet and lifestyle changes.
For a more profound understanding of the science behind mental health and inflammation, consider reading The Inflamed Mind: A Radical New Approach to Depression by Cambridge University Professor Edward Bullmore. And for ongoing support, visit Dr. Brogan’s website or explore the resources available on MadInAmerica.com, a blog curated by leading integrative psychiatry experts.
Remember, this article reflects my personal opinion and is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always consult with your healthcare provider before making any changes to your treatment plan.
